Nutrition Assistance Expected to Expire for 41 Million Amid Ongoing US Government Shutdown
USDA officials announced recently that SNAP funds under one of the country’s largest social assistance programs will not be distributed next month amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Closure Continues Into 25th Day
The government shutdown had reached three and a half weeks at the time of the statement, coming after demands from hundreds of House Democrats urging agriculture officials to access contingency funds to fund next month's benefits.
“Ultimately, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “Now, no payments will be distributed” on 1 November.
Millions Affected
More than 41 million individuals depend on these monthly payments, as reported by federal data. In certain states, such as one southwestern state, dependence on SNAP is as high as 21% of residents.
Internal communications seen by a major news agency indicated that USDA officials decided against using contingency funding for the upcoming payments.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties continue to disagree regarding how to support and resume the federal government.
A statement from the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities indicated that the administration had chances to take earlier action to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have taken steps before now to get ready to use these funds,” the statement continued. “Conversely, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to influence Democratic senators to vote for a funding package to restart the federal government.
States Prepare
Executives in multiple regions declared states of emergency this week to free up resources to address food insecurity preparing for nutrition assistance payments stopping during the upcoming period.
