Food Benefits Expected to Cease for 41 Million Amid Prolonged US Government Shutdown
USDA officials stated recently that nutrition assistance payments from a major federal support systems are not going out during the coming month due to the ongoing federal closure.
Shutdown Extends Into 25th Day
The government shutdown was in nearly a month as officials revealed the news, in response to demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives asking the department to utilize contingency funds to pay for the upcoming nutrition payments.
“Ultimately, resources are exhausted,” officials announced. “Currently, no payments will be distributed” starting next month.
Millions Affected
Over 40 million Americans count on these monthly payments, according to the USDA. In certain states, including New Mexico, dependence on the program is as high as 21% of residents.
Documents reviewed by journalists indicated that the department chose not to tap contingency funding to cover next month's assistance.
Legislative Deadlock
Lawmakers from both parties are still at odds about the way to finance and restart federal agencies.
A statement from the leader of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities suggested that federal leadership had chances to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.
“Officials were able and expected to taken steps before now to get ready to access these resources,” the remarks concluded. “Rather, officials could opt out for potential political benefit” as conservative leaders work to push upper chamber Democrats to vote for legislation that would reopen government operations.
Emergency Measures
Governors in Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations in recent days to allocate funds for hunger relief expecting food benefits expiring next month.
