Food Benefits Expected to Cease for Tens of Millions Amid Prolonged Federal Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture declared on Saturday that SNAP funds from a major federal support systems won't be issued in November because of the continuing federal closure.
Impasse Persists Into 25th Day
The government shutdown had reached three and a half weeks when the announcement was made, coming after calls from over 200 House Democrats urging agriculture officials to access reserve accounts to fund next month's benefits.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “Currently, assistance will not be provided” starting next month.
Millions Affected
More than 41 million individuals count on the regular assistance, per federal data. In certain states, like one southwestern state, dependence on SNAP affects a significant portion of citizens.
Documents reviewed by journalists revealed that federal authorities decided against using contingency funding for the upcoming payments.
Partisan Impasse
Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked regarding how to fund and reopen the federal government.
Remarks from the director at a prominent policy organization indicated that the White House had opportunities to prepare in advance to avoid interruption in payments.
“Officials were able and expected to taken steps earlier to make arrangements to use these funds,” the comments added. “Rather, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to pressure Senate Democrats to approve legislation that would resume the federal government.
States Prepare
Executives in Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols this week to free up resources for hunger relief in anticipation of SNAP benefits not being issued in November.
