Nutrition Assistance Set to End for 41 Million Amid Continuing Government Closure
USDA officials announced this past weekend that monthly food benefits through a critical national social assistance programs will not be distributed in November amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The government shutdown had reached nearly a month as officials revealed the news, in response to calls from over 200 Democratic representatives urging the department to tap into contingency funds to cover November's food assistance.
“Ultimately, the well has run dry,” the department confirmed. “Now, no payments will be distributed” starting next month.
Millions Affected
More than 41 million individuals count on the regular assistance, per the USDA. Some regions, such as New Mexico, reliance on SNAP is as high as a significant portion of citizens.
Documents reviewed by Reuters showed that USDA officials chose not to tap reserve funds to cover next month's assistance.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties are still at odds regarding how to fund and reopen government operations.
A statement from the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities indicated that federal leadership had chances to prepare in advance to prevent benefits from running out.
“They had the ability and responsibility acted earlier to make arrangements to utilize available money,” the comments added. “Conversely, officials could opt out to secure political leverage” as Republicans seek to influence Democratic senators to support a spending bill to restart government operations.
Emergency Measures
State leaders from Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations recently to make money available to address food insecurity preparing for SNAP benefits not being issued during the upcoming period.
