SNAP Payments Expected to Cease for Tens of Millions Amid Prolonged US Government Shutdown
Federal agriculture authorities declared recently that monthly food benefits from a major federal welfare initiatives will not be distributed during the coming month amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Shutdown Extends Into 25th Day
The funding lapse lasted its 25th day when the announcement was made, coming after calls from over 200 House Democrats asking the USDA to utilize contingency funds to fund next month's benefits.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” officials announced. “At this time, no payments will be distributed” beginning in November.
Millions Affected
Tens of millions of people depend on these food benefits, according to the USDA. Some regions, like one southwestern state, use of this assistance reaches one-fifth of the population.
Documents reviewed by Reuters indicated that the department decided against using contingency funding for November food benefits.
Political Stalemate
Congressional leaders are still at odds about the way to fund and reopen government operations.
Comments by the director at a prominent policy organization noted that federal leadership had chances to prepare in advance to avoid interruption in payments.
“They had the ability and responsibility taken steps before now to get ready to use these funds,” the comments added. “Conversely, they might decide against it to secure political leverage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to push upper chamber Democrats to support a funding package that would resume the federal government.
States Prepare
Governors in two affected states issued emergency declarations in recent days to free up resources to address food insecurity expecting nutrition assistance payments stopping in November.
