Nutrition Assistance Scheduled to Cease for 41 Million Throughout Continuing Government Closure
USDA officials announced recently that SNAP funds through a critical national welfare initiatives won't be issued next month due to the ongoing federal closure.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The government shutdown lasted its 25th day at the time of the statement, which followed appeals by more than two hundred Democratic representatives urging the USDA to utilize emergency reserves to fund the upcoming nutrition payments.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the department confirmed. “Now, assistance will not be provided” beginning in November.
Millions Affected
Over 40 million Americans rely on these monthly payments, according to federal data. In certain states, like New Mexico, use of the program is as high as 21% of residents.
Internal communications seen by journalists revealed that the department chose not to tap reserve funds for November food benefits.
Partisan Impasse
Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked regarding how to support and resume the federal government.
A statement from the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities noted that federal leadership could have acted to prepare in advance to avoid interruption in payments.
“They had the ability and responsibility made moves weeks ago to make arrangements to access these resources,” the comments added. “Rather, they might decide against it for potential political benefit” as Republicans seek to influence Democratic senators to vote for legislation that would reopen the federal government.
States Prepare
Governors in two affected states issued emergency declarations recently to free up resources to address food insecurity expecting SNAP benefits not being issued in November.
