Nutrition Assistance Set to End for Over 40 Million Throughout Ongoing US Government Shutdown
USDA officials stated recently that nutrition assistance payments from a major federal social assistance programs are not going out next month due to the ongoing government funding lapse.
Closure Continues Into 25th Day
The funding lapse was in nearly a month when the announcement was made, coming after calls from over 200 Congressional Democrats urging the department to tap into emergency reserves to fund November's food assistance.
“Bottom line, resources are exhausted,” officials announced. “Currently, no payments will be distributed” starting next month.
Widespread Impact
More than 41 million individuals depend on these food benefits, as reported by the USDA. Various areas, like one southwestern state, use of the program affects 21% of residents.
Internal communications seen by journalists revealed that USDA officials decided against using emergency reserves for the upcoming payments.
Legislative Deadlock
Congressional leaders remain deadlocked regarding how to finance and restart the federal government.
Remarks from the leader of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities indicated that the administration had opportunities to prepare in advance to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have made moves before now to be prepared to use these funds,” the comments added. “Rather, it may choose not to use them to secure political leverage” as conservative leaders work to push upper chamber Democrats to support legislation to restart government operations.
States Prepare
Executives in two affected states declared states of emergency recently to free up resources to address food insecurity expecting food benefits expiring during the upcoming period.
