SNAP Payments Set to End for 41 Million Amid Ongoing US Government Shutdown
Federal agriculture authorities announced this past weekend that SNAP funds under one of the country’s largest welfare initiatives are not going out during the coming month amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Closure Continues Through Its Third Week
The federal closure lasted its 25th day at the time of the statement, coming after appeals by more than two hundred Democratic representatives asking agriculture officials to tap into contingency funds to cover next month's benefits.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “At this time, there will be no benefits issued” beginning in November.
Widespread Impact
Over 40 million Americans rely on these monthly payments, per the USDA. Various areas, such as one southwestern state, dependence on SNAP is as high as 21% of residents.
Documents reviewed by journalists showed that the department chose not to tap contingency funding to cover next month's assistance.
Political Stalemate
Congressional leaders continue to disagree over how to fund and reopen federal agencies.
Comments by the leader of a budget research center suggested that federal leadership had chances to prepare in advance to prevent benefits from running out.
“They had the ability and responsibility made moves before now to be prepared to access these resources,” the comments added. “Instead, officials could opt out in an effort to gain political advantage” as conservative leaders work to push upper chamber Democrats to approve a funding package that would resume government operations.
States Prepare
State leaders from two affected states issued emergency declarations in recent days to allocate funds for hunger relief in anticipation of nutrition assistance payments stopping next month.
