SNAP Payments Expected to End for Tens of Millions Amid Ongoing Government Closure
The United States Department of Agriculture announced this past weekend that monthly food benefits through a critical national social assistance programs won't be issued next month because of the continuing federal closure.
Shutdown Extends For Nearly Four Weeks
The federal closure lasted nearly a month when the announcement was made, coming after demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives urging the department to tap into contingency funds to pay for next month's benefits.
“The reality is, funds are depleted,” the department confirmed. “Now, there will be no benefits issued” on 1 November.
National Consequences
Over 40 million Americans depend on the regular assistance, per federal data. Various areas, such as New Mexico, use of this assistance affects a significant portion of citizens.
Documents reviewed by Reuters indicated that the department would not access reserve funds for the upcoming payments.
Political Stalemate
Congressional leaders are still at odds about the way to support and resume federal agencies.
Remarks from the leader of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities indicated that the administration could have acted to prepare in advance to ensure continuous assistance.
“It could have, and should have acted before now to be prepared to access these resources,” the statement continued. “Rather, officials could opt out in an effort to gain political advantage” as conservative leaders work to pressure Senate Democrats to approve legislation to restart government operations.
States Prepare
Executives in Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations in recent days to allocate funds to address food insecurity expecting SNAP benefits not being issued during the upcoming period.