Food Benefits Set to Expire for Tens of Millions Throughout Continuing Government Closure
The United States Department of Agriculture stated recently that SNAP funds under one of the country’s largest support systems won't be issued in November because of the continuing government funding lapse.
Impasse Persists Into 25th Day
The federal closure lasted nearly a month as officials revealed the news, in response to appeals by more than two hundred Democratic representatives urging the USDA to access reserve accounts to fund November's food assistance.
“Ultimately, funds are depleted,” the department confirmed. “Now, there will be no benefits issued” beginning in November.
Millions Affected
Tens of millions of people depend on these food benefits, as reported by the USDA. In certain states, like one southwestern state, dependence on the program affects 21% of residents.
Internal communications seen by journalists indicated that USDA officials would not access reserve funds to cover next month's assistance.
Political Stalemate
Congressional leaders continue to disagree about the way to fund and reopen government operations.
Comments by the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities indicated that federal leadership had opportunities to act sooner to ensure continuous assistance.
“They had the ability and responsibility taken steps before now to be prepared to utilize available money,” the remarks concluded. “Conversely, it may choose not to use them to secure political leverage” as Republicans seek to pressure Senate Democrats to vote for a spending bill to restart government operations.
Local Responses
Executives in multiple regions declared states of emergency this week to make money available to combat potential hunger expecting SNAP benefits not being issued next month.