Nutrition Assistance Expected to End for Tens of Millions Amid Prolonged Federal Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture stated this past weekend that monthly food benefits through a critical national support systems are not going out next month due to the ongoing government funding lapse.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The funding lapse was in its 25th day when the announcement was made, in response to demands from hundreds of House Democrats urging the USDA to access reserve accounts to fund the upcoming nutrition payments.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “Currently, assistance will not be provided” beginning in November.
Widespread Impact
Tens of millions of people count on the regular assistance, according to official statistics. Various areas, such as one southwestern state, dependence on this assistance affects 21% of residents.
A memo obtained by a major news agency indicated that USDA officials chose not to tap reserve funds to cover next month's assistance.
Partisan Impasse
Congressional leaders are still at odds regarding how to finance and restart government operations.
Remarks from the leader of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities suggested that the administration had opportunities to act sooner to ensure continuous assistance.
“Officials were able and expected to made moves before now to make arrangements to use these funds,” the comments added. “Rather, they might decide against it to secure political leverage” as Republicans seek to push upper chamber Democrats to approve a funding package to restart the federal government.
Emergency Measures
Executives in Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols recently to free up resources to address food insecurity preparing for SNAP benefits not being issued next month.
