Nutrition Assistance Set to Expire for 41 Million Throughout Ongoing Federal Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture announced recently that monthly food benefits under one of the country’s largest welfare initiatives will not be distributed during the coming month due to the ongoing federal closure.
Impasse Persists For Nearly Four Weeks
The government shutdown was in its 25th day at the time of the statement, coming after calls from over 200 House Democrats asking the USDA to tap into emergency reserves to cover next month's benefits.
“The reality is, the well has run dry,” officials announced. “At this time, assistance will not be provided” starting next month.
Widespread Impact
Tens of millions of people count on these monthly payments, according to federal data. Some regions, such as one southwestern state, reliance on SNAP reaches one-fifth of the population.
Internal communications seen by journalists indicated that USDA officials decided against using reserve funds for November food benefits.
Political Stalemate
Congressional leaders remain deadlocked over how to support and resume the federal government.
A statement from the leader of a prominent policy organization suggested that the White House could have acted to act sooner to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have made moves weeks ago to get ready to utilize available money,” the statement continued. “Conversely, officials could opt out to secure political leverage” as Republicans seek to pressure Senate Democrats to support a funding package that would resume the federal government.
States Prepare
Executives in two affected states issued emergency declarations this week to make money available to combat potential hunger in anticipation of food benefits expiring during the upcoming period.
