State news
Senate Bill IV was signed by Gov. Greg Abbott on Dec. 18, 2023. The new law clamps down on illegal immigration in various ways, but its largest impact is making illegal immigration a state crime in Texas. Two months before taking effect on March 5, the law has been met with opposition. The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the state of Texas on Jan. 3.
National news
Although states are beginning to release SNAP funds in partial payments, these payments are limited and skewed. The Texas Tribune reported that some Texans have received about 65% of the typical month’s SNAP allotment, while others have received “as little as $16 for two people or no payments at all”
