Food Benefits Scheduled to Cease for 41 Million Amid Continuing Government Closure
USDA officials announced on Saturday that SNAP funds from a major federal support systems won't be issued next month because of the continuing federal government shutdown.
Impasse Persists For Nearly Four Weeks
The federal closure had reached three and a half weeks at the time of the statement, in response to demands from hundreds of House Democrats pushing the department to utilize contingency funds to cover next month's benefits.
“Bottom line, the well has run dry,” officials announced. “Now, assistance will not be provided” beginning in November.
Millions Affected
Tens of millions of people rely on these monthly payments, according to federal data. In certain states, including one southwestern state, reliance on the program is as high as one-fifth of the population.
Internal communications seen by a major news agency indicated that USDA officials chose not to tap reserve funds to cover next month's assistance.
Partisan Impasse
Republicans and Democrats continue to disagree regarding how to fund and reopen federal agencies.
Comments by the leader of a prominent policy organization indicated that the White House had opportunities to prepare in advance to prevent benefits from running out.
“They had the ability and responsibility made moves earlier to get ready to use these funds,” the comments added. “Conversely, they might decide against it in an effort to gain political advantage” as Republicans seek to pressure Senate Democrats to approve legislation that would resume federal functions.
Emergency Measures
Executives in multiple regions activated emergency protocols this week to free up resources for hunger relief expecting nutrition assistance payments stopping next month.
