SNAP Payments Expected to Expire for Tens of Millions During Prolonged Federal Shutdown
USDA officials announced recently that monthly food benefits under one of the country’s largest welfare initiatives won't be issued in November because of the continuing federal government shutdown.
Shutdown Extends For Nearly Four Weeks
The federal closure had reached three and a half weeks when the announcement was made, which followed calls from over 200 House Democrats asking the department to utilize emergency reserves to fund the upcoming nutrition payments.
“Bottom line, resources are exhausted,” officials announced. “At this time, there will be no benefits issued” beginning in November.
Widespread Impact
More than 41 million individuals count on these monthly payments, per federal data. Some regions, like one southwestern state, reliance on the program reaches one-fifth of the population.
A memo obtained by a major news agency showed that USDA officials would not access reserve funds to cover next month's assistance.
Partisan Impasse
Lawmakers from both parties are still at odds regarding how to finance and restart the federal government.
A statement from the leader of a budget research center noted that the White House had opportunities to prepare in advance to ensure continuous assistance.
“They had the ability and responsibility taken steps weeks ago to make arrangements to access these resources,” the comments added. “Conversely, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” as conservative leaders work to push upper chamber Democrats to vote for legislation to restart government operations.
Local Responses
State leaders from two affected states activated emergency protocols this week to make money available for hunger relief in anticipation of nutrition assistance payments stopping next month.
