Federal agriculture authorities declared this past weekend that nutrition assistance payments from a major federal social assistance programs will not be distributed next month due to the ongoing federal closure.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The federal closure had reached three and a half weeks as officials revealed the news, coming after demands from hundreds of House Democrats pushing agriculture officials to utilize contingency funds to cover November's food assistance.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “Currently, no payments will be distributed” beginning in November.
National Consequences
Tens of millions of people count on these food benefits, as reported by federal data. In certain states, including one southwestern state, dependence on SNAP affects a significant portion of citizens.
A memo obtained by a major news agency revealed that USDA officials decided against using reserve funds for November food benefits.
Legislative Deadlock
Congressional leaders are still at odds about the way to fund and reopen government operations.
Remarks from the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities noted that the White House had opportunities to prepare in advance to prevent benefits from running out.
“Officials were able and expected to acted before now to make arrangements to use these funds,” the statement continued. “Rather, officials could opt out in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to push upper chamber Democrats to support a funding package to restart federal functions.
Emergency Measures
State leaders from Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols recently to free up resources to combat potential hunger expecting nutrition assistance payments stopping during the upcoming period.
