Nutrition Assistance Scheduled to Expire for Over 40 Million Throughout Prolonged US Government Shutdown
Federal agriculture authorities declared recently that nutrition assistance payments through a critical national welfare initiatives are not going out in November due to the ongoing government funding lapse.
Closure Continues Through Its Third Week
The funding lapse had reached its 25th day at the time of the statement, coming after appeals by more than two hundred Congressional Democrats urging the department to tap into contingency funds to fund November's food assistance.
“The reality is, funds are depleted,” the USDA stated. “Currently, assistance will not be provided” starting next month.
Widespread Impact
Over 40 million Americans rely on these food benefits, per federal data. In certain states, like New Mexico, reliance on this assistance is as high as 21% of residents.
A memo obtained by journalists revealed that federal authorities decided against using reserve funds for the upcoming payments.
Legislative Deadlock
Congressional leaders remain deadlocked regarding how to fund and reopen government operations.
Comments by the leader of a budget research center noted that the White House had chances to act sooner to ensure continuous assistance.
“It could have, and should have acted before now to be prepared to use these funds,” the statement continued. “Instead, they might decide against it to secure political leverage” as Republicans seek to push upper chamber Democrats to approve a spending bill that would reopen federal functions.
Emergency Measures
Governors in Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations this week to make money available to combat potential hunger in anticipation of nutrition assistance payments stopping next month.
