Nutrition Assistance Expected to End for Tens of Millions During Continuing Government Closure
Federal agriculture authorities declared this past weekend that monthly food benefits from a major federal welfare initiatives are not going out next month because of the continuing government funding lapse.
Closure Continues For Nearly Four Weeks
The federal closure had reached nearly a month as officials revealed the news, coming after calls from over 200 Congressional Democrats urging the department to tap into contingency funds to fund the upcoming nutrition payments.
“Ultimately, the well has run dry,” the department confirmed. “Now, there will be no benefits issued” on 1 November.
Widespread Impact
Over 40 million Americans rely on these food benefits, according to official statistics. In certain states, such as one southwestern state, dependence on the program affects a significant portion of citizens.
Internal communications seen by Reuters revealed that the department decided against using reserve funds for the upcoming payments.
Partisan Impasse
Congressional leaders continue to disagree about the way to fund and reopen federal agencies.
A statement from the director at a budget research center suggested that federal leadership had opportunities to take earlier action to avoid interruption in payments.
“It could have, and should have made moves earlier to make arrangements to utilize available money,” the comments added. “Conversely, they might decide against it to secure political leverage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to influence Democratic senators to vote for legislation that would resume federal functions.
Local Responses
State leaders from Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols this week to free up resources to combat potential hunger in anticipation of food benefits expiring in November.
