SNAP Payments Scheduled to Cease for Over 40 Million During Continuing US Government Shutdown
USDA officials stated recently that monthly food benefits from a major federal support systems are not going out in November amid the persistent federal closure.
Closure Continues Into 25th Day
The funding lapse lasted three and a half weeks as officials revealed the news, coming after appeals by more than two hundred Congressional Democrats urging the department to tap into emergency reserves to pay for the upcoming nutrition payments.
“Ultimately, resources are exhausted,” officials announced. “Currently, no payments will be distributed” starting next month.
Widespread Impact
Tens of millions of people depend on the regular assistance, per the USDA. In certain states, like one southwestern state, dependence on SNAP affects one-fifth of the population.
Documents reviewed by Reuters showed that the department chose not to tap emergency reserves for November food benefits.
Political Stalemate
Lawmakers from both parties are still at odds regarding how to finance and restart federal agencies.
Remarks from the director at a prominent policy organization indicated that the White House could have acted to take earlier action to avoid interruption in payments.
“They had the ability and responsibility made moves earlier to be prepared to use these funds,” the comments added. “Rather, it may choose not to use them for potential political benefit” as conservative leaders work to push upper chamber Democrats to approve a funding package that would reopen government operations.
Emergency Measures
Executives in multiple regions issued emergency declarations in recent days to free up resources to address food insecurity expecting nutrition assistance payments stopping during the upcoming period.
