Food Benefits Set to End for Tens of Millions During Continuing Federal Shutdown
Federal agriculture authorities declared on Saturday that nutrition assistance payments through a critical national social assistance programs are not going out during the coming month amid the persistent government funding lapse.
Closure Continues 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 Congressional Democrats urging the USDA to utilize reserve accounts to fund next month's benefits.
“Ultimately, funds are depleted,” the department confirmed. “Currently, no payments will be distributed” beginning in November.
National Consequences
Over 40 million Americans count on the regular assistance, as reported by federal data. In certain states, such as one southwestern state, use of this assistance reaches one-fifth of the population.
A memo obtained by journalists revealed that the department decided against using emergency reserves for November food benefits.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties remain deadlocked over how to support and resume government operations.
Remarks from the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities suggested that the administration had opportunities to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.
“It could have, and should have acted before now to get ready to access these resources,” the statement continued. “Instead, they might decide against it in an effort to gain political advantage” as Republicans seek to pressure Senate Democrats to approve a spending bill to restart government operations.
Local Responses
Governors in multiple regions activated emergency protocols in recent days to allocate funds to address food insecurity preparing for food benefits expiring next month.
