Nutrition Assistance Scheduled to Expire for Tens of Millions Throughout Continuing Federal Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture declared this past weekend that nutrition assistance payments from a major federal social assistance programs are not going out during the coming month because of the continuing federal government shutdown.
Closure Continues Through Its Third Week
The federal closure was in its 25th day when the announcement was made, which followed calls from over 200 Congressional Democrats urging the USDA to access emergency reserves to pay for the upcoming nutrition payments.
“Ultimately, the well has run dry,” the USDA stated. “At this time, there will be no benefits issued” beginning in November.
National Consequences
Tens of millions of people count on these monthly payments, per federal data. In certain states, including New Mexico, dependence on SNAP affects a significant portion of citizens.
A memo obtained by Reuters indicated that federal authorities chose not to tap contingency funding to cover next month's assistance.
Political Stalemate
Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked over how to finance and restart government operations.
Comments by the leader of a budget research center indicated that the administration had chances to prepare in advance to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have taken steps before now to get ready to access these resources,” the statement continued. “Instead, officials could opt out for potential political benefit” as conservative leaders work to influence Democratic senators to support legislation to restart government operations.
Emergency Measures
State leaders from Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations this week to allocate funds to address food insecurity expecting SNAP benefits not being issued next month.
