CALIFORNIA – Governor Gavin Newsom warned on October 20 that the federal shutdown could delay CalFresh food benefits for millions of Californians.

According to Newsom, if President Donald Trump and Congress don’t act by October 23, CalFresh benefits could be delayed in November.

The California Department of Social Services began notifying all counties to prepare for potential impacts. These federally funded food benefits support about 5.5 million Californians, who may begin receiving delay notices as early as this week.

Some state-funded food programs will also be affected.

The potential disruption comes as the federal government shutdown enters its second month.

“It is long past time for Republicans in Congress to grow a spine, stand up to Trump, and deliver for the American people,” said Newsom.

63.2% of SNAP participants are children or seniors

The potential delay in food benefits comes as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, which could increase demand on local food banks.

In California, 63.2% of SNAP participants are children or seniors.

The federal government has instructed states to withhold November 2025 benefit data, temporarily pausing CalFresh fund disbursements.

The impact is immediate, first affecting new CalFresh enrollees in late October, and could extend to all participants if the shutdown continues past October 23.

The longer the federal government shutdown continues, the more programs may be affected and more Californians could experience disruptions, according to Newsom’s office.

RELATED: Thousands of California SNAP recipients face new work rules beginning November 1