Food Benefits Expected to Expire for Over 40 Million During Prolonged Federal Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture announced on Saturday that monthly food benefits from a major federal support systems won't be issued next month because of the continuing federal closure.
Closure Continues Into 25th Day
The funding lapse lasted three and a half weeks at the time of the statement, which followed calls from over 200 Democratic representatives pushing agriculture officials to access emergency reserves to pay for November's food assistance.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “Now, no payments will be distributed” beginning in November.
Widespread Impact
Over 40 million Americans rely on these monthly payments, as reported by official statistics. Various areas, including New Mexico, use of this assistance affects 21% of residents.
Internal communications seen by Reuters indicated that the department would not access reserve funds for the upcoming payments.
Partisan Impasse
Congressional leaders remain deadlocked regarding how to finance and restart federal agencies.
Comments by the head of a prominent policy organization noted that the White House had chances to prepare in advance to prevent benefits from running out.
“Officials were able and expected to acted earlier to be prepared to access these resources,” the remarks concluded. “Conversely, they might decide against it in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to pressure Senate Democrats to support legislation that would resume federal functions.
Emergency Measures
State leaders from two affected states activated emergency protocols this week to allocate funds to address food insecurity preparing for nutrition assistance payments stopping in November.
