Half of US states have sued the Trump administration over its plans to halt funding for food aid used by more than 40 million low-income Americans.
The states hope to force the administration to use a roughly $6bn (£4.5bn) emergency contingency fund for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Snap), also known as food stamps.
The US Department of Agriculture (Usda), which oversees Snap, has said it would not use it and allow funds to run dry in November, arguing the money may be needed for emergencies, such as natural disasters.
Republicans and Democrats have traded blame for the ongoing federal shutdown and there has not been any meaningful progress toward a deal.
"Bottom line, the well has run dry," the Usda said in an announcement about Snap benefits on its website.
