Food Benefits Expected to Cease for Tens of Millions During Continuing Government Closure
The United States Department of Agriculture announced on Saturday that nutrition assistance payments from a major federal support systems will not be distributed during the coming month amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Shutdown Extends Into 25th Day
The federal closure lasted nearly a month when the announcement was made, coming after calls from over 200 House Democrats urging the department to tap into emergency reserves to pay for next month's benefits.
“The reality is, the well has run dry,” the department confirmed. “Currently, assistance will not be provided” beginning in November.
Widespread Impact
Tens of millions of people count on these monthly payments, per federal data. Some regions, like one southwestern state, use of this assistance is as high as a significant portion of citizens.
Internal communications seen by Reuters revealed that USDA officials decided against using reserve funds for November food benefits.
Legislative Deadlock
Republicans and Democrats continue to disagree about the way to fund and reopen the federal government.
A statement from the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities indicated that the administration had opportunities to act sooner to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have taken steps earlier to make arrangements to access these resources,” the remarks concluded. “Instead, officials could opt out in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to pressure Senate Democrats to vote for a spending bill to restart federal functions.
Local Responses
State leaders from Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols in recent days to make money available for hunger relief expecting food benefits expiring during the upcoming period.
