Nutrition Assistance Scheduled to Expire for 41 Million During Ongoing Government Closure
USDA officials declared on Saturday that nutrition assistance payments through a critical national social assistance programs won't be issued during the coming month amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Impasse Persists Into 25th Day
The government shutdown had reached three and a half weeks as officials revealed the news, which followed demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives asking agriculture officials to access contingency funds to cover the upcoming nutrition payments.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “Currently, no payments will be distributed” on 1 November.
Widespread Impact
More than 41 million individuals count on these food benefits, per the USDA. In certain states, such as one southwestern state, dependence on the program reaches one-fifth of the population.
Documents reviewed by journalists showed that USDA officials decided against using emergency reserves to cover next month's assistance.
Partisan Impasse
Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked regarding how to finance and restart the federal government.
Comments by the head of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities noted that federal leadership had opportunities to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.
“It could have, and should have made moves earlier to be prepared to utilize available money,” the comments added. “Conversely, officials could opt out for potential political benefit” while GOP lawmakers attempt to push upper chamber Democrats to support a spending bill that would reopen the federal government.
Emergency Measures
Governors in multiple regions declared states of emergency in recent days to make money available to address food insecurity in anticipation of food benefits expiring in November.