Food Benefits Scheduled to End for Tens of Millions Amid Ongoing Government Closure
The United States Department of Agriculture declared this past weekend that monthly food benefits under one of the country’s largest support systems will not be distributed next month amid the persistent government funding lapse.
Shutdown Extends For Nearly Four Weeks
The funding lapse had reached its 25th day as officials revealed the news, in response to calls from over 200 House Democrats pushing the department to tap into contingency funds to fund next month's benefits.
“Bottom line, resources are exhausted,” officials announced. “Currently, there will be no benefits issued” on 1 November.
Millions Affected
More than 41 million individuals rely on these monthly payments, per the USDA. Various areas, including New Mexico, dependence on SNAP reaches a significant portion of citizens.
A memo obtained by Reuters revealed that the department would not access emergency reserves for November food benefits.
Political Stalemate
Republicans and Democrats continue to disagree about the way to finance and restart the federal government.
Remarks from the leader of a budget research center noted that the administration had chances to take earlier action to prevent benefits from running out.
“They had the ability and responsibility acted weeks ago to get ready to utilize available money,” the remarks concluded. “Conversely, it may choose not to use them to secure political leverage” 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 to combat potential hunger in anticipation of nutrition assistance payments stopping next month.
