SNAP Payments Expected to Expire for Tens of Millions Amid Prolonged US Government Shutdown
USDA officials stated recently that nutrition assistance payments under one of the country’s largest support systems will not be distributed next month amid the persistent federal closure.
Impasse Persists Through Its Third Week
The government shutdown had reached three and a half weeks when the announcement was made, in response to appeals by more than two hundred House Democrats asking the USDA to utilize emergency reserves to cover next month's benefits.
“Bottom line, the well has run dry,” the USDA stated. “At this time, no payments will be distributed” starting next month.
Millions Affected
Tens of millions of people rely on these monthly payments, per the USDA. Some regions, like New Mexico, dependence on this assistance affects one-fifth of the population.
Internal communications seen by a major news agency indicated that federal authorities decided against using emergency reserves for the upcoming payments.
Political Stalemate
Congressional leaders continue to disagree regarding how to support and resume the federal government.
Remarks from the head of a prominent policy organization indicated that the White House had opportunities to prepare in advance to prevent benefits from running out.
“Officials were able and expected to acted earlier to be prepared to use these funds,” the statement continued. “Instead, they might decide against it in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to influence Democratic senators to support a funding package to restart the federal government.
States Prepare
Executives in Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols this week to make money available to combat potential hunger preparing for SNAP benefits not being issued in November.
