Food Benefits Scheduled to Cease for Tens of Millions Amid Continuing Government Closure
USDA officials stated recently that monthly food benefits under one of the country’s largest welfare initiatives won't be issued in November due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Shutdown Extends Into 25th Day
The government shutdown was in nearly a month at the time of the statement, which followed appeals by more than two hundred Congressional Democrats urging the USDA to tap into emergency reserves to pay for November's food assistance.
“The reality is, funds are depleted,” the department confirmed. “Currently, assistance will not be provided” beginning in November.
National Consequences
Over 40 million Americans depend on the regular assistance, according to federal data. In certain states, like New Mexico, use of SNAP reaches 21% of residents.
A memo obtained by a major news agency showed that the department would not access contingency funding for the upcoming payments.
Political Stalemate
Republicans and Democrats are still at odds regarding how to fund and reopen government operations.
A statement from the leader of a budget research center indicated that the White House had opportunities to act sooner to ensure continuous assistance.
“They had the ability and responsibility taken steps before now to make arrangements to use these funds,” the comments added. “Rather, they might decide against it to secure political leverage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to push upper chamber Democrats to approve a funding package that would resume the federal government.
Local Responses
Executives in multiple regions declared states of emergency recently to free up resources for hunger relief expecting SNAP benefits not being issued during the upcoming period.
