SNAP Payments Set to Expire for Tens of Millions Amid Continuing Government Closure
The United States Department of Agriculture announced this past weekend that SNAP funds through a critical national support systems will not be distributed in November because of the continuing government funding lapse.
Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week
The funding lapse had reached its 25th day as officials revealed the news, coming after demands from hundreds of Congressional Democrats pushing the department to tap into contingency funds to fund the upcoming nutrition payments.
“The reality is, funds are depleted,” officials announced. “Currently, no payments will be distributed” starting next month.
National Consequences
Over 40 million Americans rely on these monthly payments, per federal data. In certain states, like one southwestern state, use of SNAP reaches 21% of residents.
A memo obtained by journalists showed that federal authorities decided against using reserve funds to cover next month's assistance.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties are still at odds over how to fund and reopen federal agencies.
Comments by the leader of a prominent policy organization noted that the administration had opportunities to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.
“It could have, and should have taken steps earlier to be prepared to use these funds,” the statement continued. “Rather, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to pressure Senate Democrats to vote for a spending bill that would resume federal functions.
Emergency Measures
Governors in Louisiana and Virginia declared states of emergency recently to allocate funds to combat potential hunger expecting nutrition assistance payments stopping in November.
