Food Benefits Scheduled to Expire for Over 40 Million Amid Continuing Federal Shutdown
Federal agriculture authorities stated this past weekend that nutrition assistance payments through a critical national social assistance programs are not going out next month amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Impasse Persists Through Its Third Week
The funding lapse was in nearly a month at the time of the statement, which followed demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives pushing agriculture officials to tap into contingency funds to pay for next month's benefits.
“Bottom line, resources are exhausted,” the department confirmed. “At this time, assistance will not be provided” starting next month.
Millions Affected
Over 40 million Americans depend on the regular assistance, according to the USDA. Some regions, including one southwestern state, use of this assistance affects one-fifth of the population.
A memo obtained by Reuters revealed that the department would not access contingency funding to cover next month's assistance.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties continue to disagree over how to finance and restart federal agencies.
Comments by the leader of a prominent policy organization indicated that federal leadership had opportunities to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.
“It could have, and should have made moves earlier to get ready to use these funds,” the comments added. “Rather, officials could opt out in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to push upper chamber Democrats to vote for a spending bill that would reopen federal functions.
Local Responses
Executives in multiple regions issued emergency declarations this week to make money available for hunger relief preparing for SNAP benefits not being issued during the upcoming period.
