Attorney General Jay Jones has joined a coalition of 24 states in filing a lawsuit against the Trump Administration’s policy that restricts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility for lawful permanent residents. The lawsuit challenges the federal government’s attempt to limit access to SNAP benefits, which provide food assistance to children, elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.
According to Attorney General Jones, legal permanent residents have completed the required process to live and work in the United States lawfully and should have access to SNAP benefits. “My office is proud to join this lawsuit and defend the ability of legal permanent residents, including children, refugees, and immigrants granted asylum, access to the food they need to survive,” Attorney General Jones said. “Denying them access is not only illegal, but it will stretch the already thin pocketbooks of Virginians trying to feed their families. My office will use all legal tools available to defend Virginians against these inhumane actions.”
The Office of the Attorney General of Virginia provides legal counsel and representation for state agencies while working on public safety issues and defending constitutional rights. The office also supports civil rights enforcement and victim assistance programs across Virginia communities as outlined on its official website. Additionally, it addresses matters such as human trafficking, domestic violence, consumer protection against identity theft and fraud reporting.
With this action, Attorney General Jones joins efforts by other states seeking an end to what they describe as an unlawful restriction impacting families’ ability to obtain necessary food support.
