By KRWG News
Texas – A class-action lawsuit meant to force Texas into processing food stamp applications within the required 30 days has been dismissed.
A federal judge in Austin said the U.S. Department of Agriculture is pursuing action against Texas and that Congress did not give individuals seeking benefits the right to sue.
The San Antonio Express-News reported Friday that the lawsuit was brought on behalf of two women who allegedly had to rely on handouts because of food stamp delays.
The federal processing deadlines are 30 days for regular applications and seven days for emergency applications.
U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks said if Congress intends to allow every food stamp applicant to have a private cause of action against the state, Congress must be more explicit in granting such a right. His opinion was signed Oct. 8.
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Information from: San Antonio Express-News, http://www.mysanantonio.com
Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.