SNAP Payments Set to End for 41 Million During Continuing US Government Shutdown
USDA officials declared recently that nutrition assistance payments under one of the country’s largest social assistance programs are not going out next month due to the ongoing government funding lapse.
Shutdown Extends For Nearly Four Weeks
The funding lapse lasted three and a half weeks as officials revealed the news, coming after demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives pushing agriculture officials to tap into reserve accounts to cover November's food assistance.
“Ultimately, 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 the regular assistance, as reported by official statistics. In certain states, including one southwestern state, reliance on the program affects 21% of residents.
A memo obtained by Reuters revealed that the department chose not to tap emergency reserves for the upcoming payments.
Partisan Impasse
Congressional leaders are still at odds about the way to support and resume government operations.
Remarks from the director at a budget research center noted that the administration had opportunities to take earlier action to prevent benefits from running out.
“Officials were able and expected to acted weeks ago to get ready to access these resources,” the statement continued. “Instead, they might decide against it in an effort to gain political advantage” as Republicans seek to influence Democratic senators to vote for a spending bill that would resume the federal government.
States Prepare
Governors in Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols this week to free up resources for hunger relief expecting SNAP benefits not being issued next month.
