Food Benefits Set to End for Tens of Millions During Prolonged Government Closure
The United States Department of Agriculture announced this past weekend that SNAP funds through a critical national support systems are not going out next month amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Impasse Persists Into 25th Day
The government shutdown had reached its 25th day as officials revealed the news, which followed calls from over 200 Democratic representatives pushing the USDA to access emergency reserves to cover the upcoming nutrition payments.
“Ultimately, resources are exhausted,” the department confirmed. “Currently, assistance will not be provided” on 1 November.
Widespread Impact
Over 40 million Americans depend on the regular assistance, as reported by the USDA. Some regions, including New Mexico, use of SNAP affects a significant portion of citizens.
A memo obtained by journalists revealed that USDA officials would not access reserve funds for the upcoming payments.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties continue to disagree about the way to fund and reopen government operations.
A statement from the leader of a prominent policy organization noted that the administration had opportunities to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.
“It could have, and should have made moves weeks ago to be prepared to use these funds,” the statement continued. “Instead, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to pressure Senate Democrats to support a spending bill to restart government operations.
Emergency Measures
State leaders from Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations in recent days to make money available for hunger relief preparing for nutrition assistance payments stopping next month.
