Food Benefits Expected to Cease for Tens of Millions Throughout Ongoing Federal Shutdown
USDA officials declared this past weekend that nutrition assistance payments through a critical national social assistance programs won't be issued next month amid the persistent federal closure.
Closure Continues Through Its Third Week
The federal closure was in its 25th day as officials revealed the news, coming after demands from hundreds of Congressional Democrats urging the department to access reserve accounts to pay for November's food assistance.
“Ultimately, resources are exhausted,” the department confirmed. “Currently, no payments will be distributed” beginning in November.
Widespread Impact
More than 41 million individuals count on these food benefits, according to official statistics. Some regions, like one southwestern state, dependence on SNAP reaches 21% of residents.
Documents reviewed by a major news agency showed that USDA officials chose not to tap contingency funding for the upcoming payments.
Partisan Impasse
Republicans and Democrats continue to disagree about the way to support and resume the federal government.
Remarks from the head of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities suggested that the administration had chances to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.
“It could have, and should have made moves before now to get ready to use these funds,” the statement continued. “Instead, they might decide against it for potential political benefit” while GOP lawmakers attempt to pressure Senate Democrats to support a spending bill that would resume federal functions.
States Prepare
State leaders from Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols this week to free up resources to combat potential hunger expecting food benefits expiring next month.
