Nutrition Assistance Scheduled to End for Over 40 Million Throughout Continuing Government Closure
USDA officials stated recently that nutrition assistance payments under one of the country’s largest welfare initiatives are not going out during the coming month because of the continuing federal closure.
Shutdown Extends Into 25th Day
The funding lapse had reached nearly a month as officials revealed the news, coming after calls from over 200 House Democrats asking the department to access contingency funds to pay for next month's benefits.
“Ultimately, funds are depleted,” the USDA stated. “Currently, assistance will not be provided” beginning in November.
Millions Affected
More than 41 million individuals rely on the regular assistance, according to federal data. In certain states, like one southwestern state, dependence on SNAP is as high as one-fifth of the population.
A memo obtained by a major news agency showed that the department chose not to tap contingency funding for the upcoming payments.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties continue to disagree about the way to support and resume federal agencies.
A statement from the director at a prominent policy organization indicated that the administration had opportunities to take earlier action to prevent benefits from running out.
“Officials were able and expected to taken steps before now to get ready to utilize available money,” the comments added. “Instead, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” as conservative leaders work to influence Democratic senators to support a spending bill that would resume government operations.
Emergency Measures
Governors in Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations recently to free up resources to address food insecurity preparing for nutrition assistance payments stopping next month.
