SNAP Payments Scheduled to Cease for Tens of Millions Throughout Continuing US Government Shutdown
USDA officials announced this past weekend that SNAP funds from a major federal welfare initiatives are not going out in November amid the persistent federal closure.
Closure Continues Into 25th Day
The funding lapse lasted three and a half weeks when the announcement was made, in response to calls from over 200 House Democrats urging agriculture officials to tap into contingency funds to fund November's food assistance.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” officials announced. “At this time, there will be no benefits issued” starting next month.
Widespread Impact
Over 40 million Americans count on these monthly payments, per the USDA. In certain states, including one southwestern state, reliance on this assistance is as high as 21% of residents.
A memo obtained by journalists indicated that the department would not access reserve funds to cover next month's assistance.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties remain deadlocked regarding how to support and resume federal agencies.
Remarks from the head of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities indicated that the White House could have acted to take earlier action to prevent benefits from running out.
“They had the ability and responsibility made moves weeks ago to be prepared to use these funds,” the comments added. “Instead, it may choose not to use them to secure political leverage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to pressure Senate Democrats to vote for a spending bill to restart the federal government.
Local Responses
State leaders from multiple regions issued emergency declarations this week to make money available to combat potential hunger expecting SNAP benefits not being issued next month.