Food Benefits Scheduled to End for Over 40 Million Amid Continuing Government Closure
USDA officials announced recently that nutrition assistance payments through a critical national social assistance programs won't be issued during the coming month because of the continuing federal government shutdown.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The federal closure lasted nearly a month as officials revealed the news, coming after appeals by more than two hundred Democratic representatives pushing the USDA to access reserve accounts to fund next month's benefits.
“Ultimately, the well has run dry,” the USDA stated. “At this time, assistance will not be provided” on 1 November.
Widespread Impact
More than 41 million individuals count on these food benefits, according to federal data. Some regions, like one southwestern state, reliance on SNAP is as high as a significant portion of citizens.
Documents reviewed by Reuters indicated that USDA officials would not access emergency reserves for the upcoming payments.
Political Stalemate
Congressional leaders continue to disagree regarding how to fund and reopen the federal government.
Remarks from the head of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities indicated that federal leadership had opportunities to take earlier action to prevent benefits from running out.
“It could have, and should have made moves weeks ago to get ready to use these funds,” the comments added. “Rather, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” as Republicans seek to influence Democratic senators to vote for legislation that would resume the federal government.
Emergency Measures
Executives in multiple regions issued emergency declarations this week to allocate funds for hunger relief expecting SNAP benefits not being issued next month.