Governor Andy Beshear addressed the impact of the recent federal government shutdown and updates on SNAP benefits during his Team Kentucky Update on Thursday.

On Wednesday night, President Donald Trump signed a government funding bill, ending the record 43-day shutdown just hours after its approval by the U.S. House of Representatives and following its passage in the Senate earlier in the week.

On Thursday, Governor Beshear shared that, ahead of his Team Kentucky Update, the federal government provided the necessary guidelines for the state to begin issuing full SNAP benefits, which his administration is currently reviewing.

Beshear named the Team Kentucky All-stars as those who helped secure partial SNAP funding after the October 31st court ruling, calling the decision to provide partial benefits an important first step in supporting Kentuckians in need.

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click to download audioHe noted that over 600,000 Kentuckians depend on SNAP benefits.

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click to download audioWhen asked about the timeline for SNAP benefits, he said a good projection is mid-month. However, he added that the process could be more complex as partial benefits have already been distributed and more information from the federal government is still being reviewed.

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click to download audioGov. Beshear also said that, following the shutdown, a number of Kentucky programs that had their federal funding frozen should now receive the necessary funds.

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click to download audioGov. Beshear emphasized that, following the federal shutdown, the priority is ensuring Kentuckians get the help they need, especially with Thanksgiving approaching. He added that Team Kentucky stands ready to process benefits quickly once federal clearance is received, to support those who rely on SNAP.