SNAP Payments Scheduled to End for 41 Million During Ongoing Federal Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture stated recently that monthly food benefits from a major federal support systems are not going out in November due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The government shutdown lasted nearly a month at the time of the statement, in response to demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives urging the USDA to tap into contingency funds to fund next month's benefits.
“Bottom line, resources are exhausted,” the department confirmed. “Now, assistance will not be provided” starting next month.
National Consequences
More than 41 million individuals depend on the regular assistance, according to federal data. In certain states, including New Mexico, use of this assistance is as high as one-fifth of the population.
Documents reviewed by journalists showed that USDA officials would not access contingency funding for the upcoming payments.
Political Stalemate
Congressional leaders continue to disagree about the way to fund and reopen federal agencies.
Comments by the head of a prominent policy organization noted that federal leadership had chances to prepare in advance to ensure continuous assistance.
“Officials were able and expected to taken steps before now to make arrangements to access these resources,” the remarks concluded. “Rather, officials could opt out in an effort to gain political advantage” as Republicans seek to pressure Senate Democrats to vote for legislation that would resume government operations.
Emergency Measures
Governors in Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations this week to allocate funds for hunger relief in anticipation of nutrition assistance payments stopping next month.
