Food Benefits Set to Expire for 41 Million During Continuing US Government Shutdown
The United States Department of Agriculture declared this past weekend that monthly food benefits through a critical national support systems won't be issued next month because of the continuing federal closure.
Shutdown Extends For Nearly Four Weeks
The funding lapse had reached nearly a month as officials revealed the news, which followed demands from hundreds of House Democrats asking the USDA to tap into reserve accounts to fund next month's benefits.
“Bottom line, funds are depleted,” officials announced. “At this time, assistance will not be provided” starting next month.
National Consequences
Over 40 million Americans depend on the regular assistance, as reported by federal data. In certain states, like New Mexico, reliance on this assistance is as high as one-fifth of the population.
Internal communications seen by a major news agency showed that the department decided against using reserve funds for the upcoming payments.
Partisan Impasse
Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked about the way to fund and reopen government operations.
Remarks from the leader of a prominent policy organization indicated that the administration had opportunities to prepare in advance to ensure continuous assistance.
“They had the ability and responsibility taken steps before now to get ready to use these funds,” the statement continued. “Rather, it may choose not to use them to secure political leverage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to push upper chamber Democrats to vote for legislation that would reopen the federal government.
Local Responses
State leaders from multiple regions issued emergency declarations in recent days to free up resources to combat potential hunger expecting nutrition assistance payments stopping during the upcoming period.
