Food Benefits Scheduled to Cease for Over 40 Million During Continuing US Government Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture announced on Saturday that nutrition assistance payments from a major federal support systems will not be distributed in November amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Impasse Persists Into 25th Day
The funding lapse lasted three and a half weeks as officials revealed the news, in response to demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives asking agriculture officials to utilize reserve accounts to pay for the upcoming nutrition payments.
“Bottom line, funds are depleted,” the USDA stated. “At this time, no payments will be distributed” on 1 November.
Widespread Impact
More than 41 million individuals rely on these monthly payments, according to official statistics. Various areas, including New Mexico, use of SNAP affects 21% of residents.
Internal communications seen by a major news agency revealed that USDA officials chose not to tap reserve funds for November food benefits.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties are still at odds regarding how to finance and restart the federal government.
A statement from the director at a prominent policy organization noted that the White House could have acted to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.
“It could have, and should have taken steps before now to make arrangements to utilize available money,” the comments added. “Instead, officials could opt out for potential political benefit” as conservative leaders work to pressure Senate Democrats to vote for legislation to restart federal functions.
States Prepare
Governors in two affected states issued emergency declarations this week to free up resources to combat potential hunger in anticipation of nutrition assistance payments stopping in November.
