Food Benefits Expected to Cease for Tens of Millions Amid Continuing Government Closure
The United States Department of Agriculture declared recently that monthly food benefits from a major federal social assistance programs won't be issued in November because of the continuing federal closure.
Impasse Persists Through Its Third Week
The government shutdown was in its 25th day when the announcement was made, coming after calls from over 200 Congressional Democrats urging agriculture officials to access contingency funds to fund next month's benefits.
“The reality is, the well has run dry,” the USDA stated. “At this time, assistance will not be provided” beginning in November.
Widespread Impact
Over 40 million Americans depend on these monthly payments, as reported by the USDA. Various areas, like New Mexico, dependence on SNAP is as high as a significant portion of citizens.
Internal communications seen by Reuters showed that federal authorities would not access contingency funding to cover next month's assistance.
Political Stalemate
Lawmakers from both parties are still at odds about the way to support and resume government operations.
Remarks from the leader of a prominent policy organization indicated that the White House had opportunities to take earlier action to ensure continuous assistance.
“They had the ability and responsibility taken steps before now to be prepared to use these funds,” the comments added. “Instead, they might decide against it in an effort to gain political advantage” as Republicans seek to pressure Senate Democrats to support a spending bill that would resume government operations.
States Prepare
Executives in two affected states declared states of emergency this week to free up resources to address food insecurity in anticipation of food benefits expiring next month.
