Food Benefits Expected to Cease for 41 Million Amid Prolonged Federal Shutdown
USDA officials announced on Saturday that monthly food benefits through a critical national social assistance programs will not be distributed next month amid the persistent federal closure.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The funding lapse had reached its 25th day when the announcement was made, in response to demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives asking the USDA to tap into reserve accounts to fund next month's benefits.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” officials announced. “Now, there will be no benefits issued” on 1 November.
National Consequences
Tens of millions of people rely on these food benefits, as reported by the USDA. In certain states, like one southwestern state, reliance on SNAP is as high as one-fifth of the population.
Documents reviewed by a major news agency indicated that the department chose not to tap reserve funds for November food benefits.
Legislative Deadlock
Congressional leaders continue to disagree about the way to finance and restart the federal government.
Comments by the leader of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities noted that federal leadership could have acted to take earlier action to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have acted weeks ago to get ready to access these resources,” the statement continued. “Rather, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to pressure Senate Democrats to approve legislation that would reopen federal functions.
Emergency Measures
Executives in two affected states issued emergency declarations recently to make money available for hunger relief expecting nutrition assistance payments stopping during the upcoming period.
