SNAP Payments Scheduled to Cease for 41 Million Amid Ongoing Federal Shutdown
USDA officials declared on Saturday that SNAP funds under one of the country’s largest social assistance programs are not going out during the coming month amid the persistent federal closure.
Impasse Persists Through Its Third Week
The funding lapse lasted its 25th day as officials revealed the news, coming after demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives pushing the USDA to utilize reserve accounts to fund next month's benefits.
“Bottom line, the well has run dry,” officials announced. “At this time, there will be no benefits issued” starting next month.
Millions Affected
Tens of millions of people count on these food benefits, according to official statistics. Various areas, including one southwestern state, use of the program is as high as a significant portion of citizens.
Documents reviewed by journalists showed that federal authorities chose not to tap reserve funds to cover next month's assistance.
Political Stalemate
Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked over how to support and resume government operations.
Remarks from the head of a budget research center noted that the White House had opportunities to act sooner to ensure continuous assistance.
“It could have, and should have acted weeks ago to be prepared to access these resources,” the remarks concluded. “Instead, officials could opt out to secure political leverage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to push upper chamber Democrats to vote for legislation to restart government operations.
Emergency Measures
Governors in Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols recently to free up resources for hunger relief expecting SNAP benefits not being issued next month.
