Nutrition Assistance Expected to Expire for Tens of Millions Throughout Continuing Federal Shutdown
USDA officials declared recently that nutrition assistance payments through a critical national social assistance programs are not going out in November due to the ongoing government funding lapse.
Closure Continues Into 25th Day
The funding lapse had reached its 25th day as officials revealed the news, which followed demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives asking agriculture officials to utilize contingency funds to pay for next month's benefits.
“The reality is, funds are depleted,” the USDA stated. “Currently, no payments will be distributed” starting next month.
Widespread Impact
Tens of millions of people count on these food benefits, according to federal data. In certain states, such as one southwestern state, use of SNAP reaches one-fifth of the population.
A memo obtained by a major news agency indicated that the department would not access reserve funds for November food benefits.
Political Stalemate
Congressional leaders are still at odds about the way to support and resume federal agencies.
A statement from the head of a prominent policy organization noted that federal leadership had opportunities to prepare in advance to prevent benefits from running out.
“They had the ability and responsibility made moves weeks ago to get ready to utilize available money,” the comments added. “Instead, 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 to restart federal functions.
States Prepare
State leaders from Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols recently to free up resources to combat potential hunger preparing for food benefits expiring in November.
