Bull v. Carter, Middle District of Tennessee
Executive Summary
Eleven families and Nashville non-profit, The Contributor, through their attorneys at the Tennessee Justice Center, Hogan Lovells (US), LLP, MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, and others, filed a federal lawsuit against Clarence H. Carter, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS), for systemic failures in administering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. The suit complains of widespread delays and errors in processing applications and appeals. The suit also charges that the state fails to clearly and accurately inform families of their rights and duties. The state asked the federal court to dismiss the claims.
On Friday, August 1st, 2025, the court rejected the request and allowed the lawsuit to move forward on all claims. A Special Master has been appointed to oversee a remedial plan to address the alleged deficiencies.