Nutrition Assistance Expected to Expire for Over 40 Million Amid Ongoing US Government Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture stated this past weekend that SNAP funds through a critical national support systems won't be issued next month because of the continuing federal closure.
Impasse Persists Into 25th Day
The federal closure had reached its 25th day at the time of the statement, in response to calls from over 200 Democratic representatives urging the department to tap into contingency funds to cover next month's benefits.
“Bottom line, funds are depleted,” the USDA stated. “At this time, assistance will not be provided” on 1 November.
National Consequences
Over 40 million Americans depend on these food benefits, per federal data. In certain states, such as one southwestern state, use of SNAP affects one-fifth of the population.
A memo obtained by Reuters indicated that the department would not access emergency reserves for the upcoming payments.
Partisan Impasse
Congressional leaders remain deadlocked over how to support and resume government operations.
A statement from the leader of a prominent policy organization noted that the administration could have acted to take earlier action to ensure continuous assistance.
“They had the ability and responsibility made moves weeks ago to be prepared to utilize available money,” the comments added. “Conversely, it may choose not to use them for potential political benefit” as conservative leaders work to pressure Senate Democrats to vote for a spending bill that would resume federal functions.
Local Responses
Governors in multiple regions declared states of emergency in recent days to make money available to address food insecurity in anticipation of food benefits expiring in November.
