Nutrition Assistance Expected to Expire for Tens of Millions Throughout Prolonged Federal Shutdown
USDA officials announced on Saturday that monthly food benefits under one of the country’s largest social assistance programs won't be issued during the coming month because of the continuing government funding lapse.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The funding lapse was in nearly a month at the time of the statement, in response to calls from over 200 Congressional Democrats asking agriculture officials to utilize reserve accounts to pay for next month's benefits.
“The reality is, funds are depleted,” the USDA stated. “Currently, there will be no benefits issued” on 1 November.
National Consequences
More than 41 million individuals depend on these monthly payments, per the USDA. Various areas, including New Mexico, reliance on SNAP affects a significant portion of citizens.
A memo obtained by Reuters revealed that the department would not access contingency funding for November food benefits.
Legislative Deadlock
Republicans and Democrats are still at odds about the way to finance and restart federal agencies.
Remarks from the head of a prominent policy organization suggested that the administration had opportunities to prepare in advance to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have acted earlier to get ready to access these resources,” the remarks concluded. “Instead, they might decide against it in an effort to gain political advantage” as conservative leaders work to pressure Senate Democrats to support a spending bill that would resume the federal government.
Emergency Measures
Executives in multiple regions issued emergency declarations in recent days to make money available to combat potential hunger expecting food benefits expiring during the upcoming period.
