SNAP Payments Scheduled to End for Tens of Millions Amid Prolonged Federal Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture declared this past weekend that monthly food benefits under one of the country’s largest support systems are not going out next month amid the persistent government funding lapse.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The federal closure was in three and a half weeks as officials revealed the news, in response to demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives urging the USDA to utilize emergency reserves to cover November's food assistance.
“The reality is, funds are depleted,” the department confirmed. “Now, assistance will not be provided” starting next month.
Widespread Impact
Over 40 million Americans depend on the regular assistance, according to the USDA. Some regions, such as one southwestern state, dependence on this assistance reaches one-fifth of the population.
A memo obtained by a major news agency indicated that USDA officials decided against using reserve funds for the upcoming payments.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties are still at odds about the way to finance and restart federal agencies.
Remarks from the leader of a prominent policy organization suggested that the White House could have acted to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.
“They had the ability and responsibility acted earlier to be prepared to access these resources,” the remarks concluded. “Instead, 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 to restart federal functions.
Emergency Measures
State leaders from multiple regions issued emergency declarations recently to make money available to combat potential hunger expecting SNAP benefits not being issued next month.
