Nutrition Assistance Set to Expire for 41 Million Throughout Continuing US Government Shutdown
USDA officials stated this past weekend that monthly food benefits under one of the country’s largest support systems are not going out in November amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The federal closure lasted three and a half weeks at the time of the statement, in response to demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives pushing the USDA to tap into reserve accounts to fund the upcoming nutrition payments.
“The reality is, the well has run dry,” officials announced. “Now, there will be no benefits issued” starting next month.
Millions Affected
More than 41 million individuals rely on these food benefits, as reported by official statistics. Various areas, like one southwestern state, dependence on the program reaches 21% of residents.
A memo obtained by Reuters showed that USDA officials decided against using contingency funding to cover next month's assistance.
Political Stalemate
Lawmakers from both parties remain deadlocked about the way to fund and reopen federal agencies.
A statement from the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities suggested that federal leadership had opportunities to prepare in advance to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have made moves weeks ago to get ready to utilize available money,” the comments added. “Instead, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” as Republicans seek to influence Democratic senators to support a funding package to restart federal functions.
Local Responses
Executives in two affected states issued emergency declarations in recent days to free up resources to combat potential hunger in anticipation of food benefits expiring during the upcoming period.
