Nutrition Assistance Scheduled to Cease for 41 Million During Ongoing Federal Shutdown
USDA officials declared this past weekend that monthly food benefits from a major federal support systems won't be issued in November due to the ongoing federal closure.
Shutdown Extends For Nearly Four Weeks
The funding lapse had reached three and a half weeks at the time of the statement, which followed demands from hundreds of Congressional Democrats asking agriculture officials to utilize reserve accounts to cover November's food assistance.
“Bottom line, resources are exhausted,” the department confirmed. “At this time, no payments will be distributed” starting next month.
National Consequences
More than 41 million individuals depend on the regular assistance, per the USDA. Some regions, such as one southwestern state, dependence on the program reaches one-fifth of the population.
Documents reviewed by journalists showed that federal authorities would not access emergency reserves to cover next month's assistance.
Political Stalemate
Lawmakers from both parties continue to disagree regarding how to finance and restart government operations.
A statement from the leader of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities noted that the administration had opportunities to prepare in advance to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have taken steps before now to make arrangements to use these funds,” the remarks concluded. “Instead, it may choose not to use them for potential political benefit” as conservative leaders work to pressure Senate Democrats to support a funding package to restart government operations.
Local Responses
Governors in Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations this week to make money available to address food insecurity in anticipation of SNAP benefits not being issued in November.
