Nutrition Assistance Scheduled to Expire for Tens of Millions Throughout Continuing Government Closure
The United States Department of Agriculture stated recently that nutrition assistance payments through a critical national social assistance programs are not going out in November amid the persistent federal closure.
Impasse Persists Into 25th Day
The government shutdown was in three and a half weeks when the announcement was made, coming after demands from hundreds of Congressional Democrats asking the department to access contingency funds to fund the upcoming nutrition payments.
“Bottom line, the well has run dry,” the USDA stated. “Currently, no payments will be distributed” beginning in November.
Widespread Impact
Tens of millions of people rely on the regular assistance, according to federal data. Some regions, such as New Mexico, use of this assistance is as high as 21% of residents.
A memo obtained by journalists indicated that the department decided against using contingency funding for the upcoming payments.
Political Stalemate
Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked over how to support and resume the federal government.
Comments by the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities noted that federal leadership had chances to act sooner to ensure continuous assistance.
“It could have, and should have acted earlier to get ready to utilize available money,” the statement continued. “Rather, they might decide against it for potential political benefit” as Republicans seek to pressure Senate Democrats to vote for a spending bill that would resume federal functions.
Local Responses
Executives in multiple regions declared states of emergency recently to free up resources for hunger relief expecting food benefits expiring next month.
