A group of Montana Democratic lawmakers is pausing efforts to call a special legislative session to address delayed food assistance amid the federal government shutdown. As Congress nears a potential resolution, Democratic members express readiness to resume efforts if aid delays persist. Concerns arise as federal court and congressional decisions cause confusion over food aid disbursements. Democratic lawmakers initially sought the special session after Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte declined to use contingency funds to cover lapsed SNAP benefits.
Sen. Mary Ann Dunwell, D-Helena, emphasized the urgency, noting, “Today, we’re holding off. Tomorrow might be different.” Dunwell and fellow Democrats began considering the session weeks ago, learning Gianforte wouldn’t fill the SNAP gap. The Montana Legislature, adjourned since April, requires 30 lawmakers to poll the rest for a special session. Dunwell and Rep. Mary Caferro, D-Helena, have support from 32 members, though 76 of the 150-member Legislature must agree.
Historically, only one of Montana’s 30+ special sessions was lawmaker-initiated; the rest were governor-called. Speaker of the Montana House Brandon Ler, R-Savage, did not comment on the Democrats’ efforts due to congressional movements on a government funding resolution. Rep. George Nikolakakos, R-Great Falls, previously critical of Gianforte’s response, questioned the efficacy of a special session for federal program issues, stressing congressional responsibility.
Thirty-six states have taken steps to supplement SNAP benefits or fund food banks, excluding Montana. Democratic Rep. Josh Seckinger, D-Bozeman, criticized the inaction, highlighting existing funds for emergencies. “We passed a bill that said, ‘Mr. Governor, here’s money to backfill cuts to federal programs. We’re giving you that authority.’ And yet, the governor refuses to do so,” Seckinger stated.
The USDA, under previous administration policies, initially refrained from using emergency funds for SNAP, impacting about 77,000 Montanans. Changes followed federal court orders requiring emergency funding utilization. Montana’s health department issued partial SNAP funds on Nov. 9, advising beneficiaries to check their electronic benefits cards. The department considered using TANF funds to backfill aid but adhered to the USDA’s partial funding plan.
Food aid advocates warn that partial funding could strain local food banks, leaving many Montanans without adequate support. Although hopeful for swift federal action, Democratic lawmakers like Rep. Caferro express skepticism about a quick return to normal operations. “If things don’t happen quickly in this urgent situation, we will be submitting the petition [for a special session],” she warned. Some Democrats, including Minority Leader Pat Flowers, remain cautious about the special session strategy, citing multiple unresolved variables.
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