Food Benefits Expected to Cease for Tens of Millions During Prolonged US Government Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture declared recently that monthly food benefits from a major federal welfare initiatives are not going out in November because of the continuing federal closure.
Closure Continues Through Its Third Week
The funding lapse had reached its 25th day at the time of the statement, in response to calls from over 200 Congressional Democrats urging the USDA to access emergency reserves to pay for the upcoming nutrition payments.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “Now, there will be no benefits issued” starting next month.
Widespread Impact
Over 40 million Americans rely on the regular assistance, according to the USDA. In certain states, like New Mexico, dependence on SNAP affects 21% of residents.
Documents reviewed by Reuters indicated that federal authorities would not access emergency reserves to cover next month's assistance.
Partisan Impasse
Lawmakers from both parties remain deadlocked about the way to support and resume government operations.
Remarks from the director at a prominent policy organization indicated that the White House could have acted to prepare in advance to ensure continuous assistance.
“They had the ability and responsibility acted before now to be prepared to utilize available money,” the statement continued. “Instead, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” as Republicans seek to push upper chamber Democrats to vote for a funding package to restart government operations.
Local Responses
Executives in Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols in recent days to allocate funds for hunger relief preparing for SNAP benefits not being issued next month.
