Food Benefits Scheduled to End for 41 Million Amid Ongoing Government Closure
The United States Department of Agriculture announced this past weekend that SNAP funds from a major federal support systems won't be issued in November due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Shutdown Extends For Nearly Four Weeks
The funding lapse lasted nearly a month at the time of the statement, in response to calls from over 200 Democratic representatives asking the department to access reserve accounts to cover November's food assistance.
“Ultimately, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “Now, there will be no benefits issued” beginning in November.
Millions Affected
Tens of millions of people count on these food benefits, according to federal data. In certain states, like New Mexico, dependence on this assistance is as high as 21% of residents.
Documents reviewed by a major news agency indicated that federal authorities decided against using contingency funding for November food benefits.
Partisan Impasse
Republicans and Democrats are still at odds over how to finance and restart the federal government.
Remarks from the head of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities suggested that the administration had opportunities to take earlier action to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have taken steps earlier to get ready to use these funds,” the comments added. “Rather, they might decide against it to secure political leverage” as conservative leaders work to influence Democratic senators to support a funding package that would reopen the federal government.
Local Responses
Executives in Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations this week to make money available for hunger relief preparing for SNAP benefits not being issued in November.
