The US government will not be able to pay food stamps to Americans on time while its operations are suspended, President Donald Trump said on the social media platform TruthSocial.
He asked the court to clarify how the White House can legally extend food stamp funding and hopes for a quick answer.
“Even if we get immediate clarification, unfortunately food stamp payments will be delayed while states distribute funds,“ Trump said.
On Friday, a US court blocked the administration from suspending the SNAP food assistance program during the government shutdown.
Starting November 1, Americans will no longer receive food stamps due to the ongoing government shutdown. About 42 million people - roughly one in eight Americans - receive food stamps. In New York state, more than three million residents receive them.
The new US fiscal year began on October 1, but Congress failed to approve a budget, leaving the government unable to function. Such government shutdowns are not uncommon; they include the shutdown of some government agencies funded directly by Congress.
President Donald Trump has blamed Democrats for the government shutdown. He has vowed to use the shutdown to implement massive staff and payroll cuts and eliminate programs that Republicans disapprove of.
Republicans control both houses of Congress, but need 60 votes to pass their bill to continue funding the government in the Senate. The ruling party currently holds 53 seats.
White House National Economic Council Chairman Kevin Hassett said on October 5 that a prolonged government shutdown could lead to layoffs and GDP losses of $15 billion per week.