Nutrition Assistance Expected to End for Tens of Millions During Prolonged US Government Shutdown

Federal agriculture authorities stated this past weekend that monthly food benefits under one of the country’s largest support systems won't be issued in November due to the ongoing federal closure.

Impasse Persists For Nearly Four Weeks

The funding lapse lasted three and a half weeks when the announcement was made, which followed calls from over 200 House Democrats asking the department to utilize emergency reserves to pay for November's food assistance.

“Bottom line, the well has run dry,” the USDA stated. “Now, there will be no benefits issued” starting next month.

Millions Affected

Tens of millions of people depend on these food benefits, according to federal data. In certain states, such as New Mexico, dependence on this assistance reaches a significant portion of citizens.

Internal communications seen by a major news agency indicated that USDA officials decided against using reserve funds for November food benefits.

Political Stalemate

Republicans and Democrats continue to disagree regarding how to fund and reopen federal agencies.

Comments by the director at a prominent policy organization suggested that federal leadership had opportunities to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.

“Officials were able and expected to taken steps earlier to make arrangements to access these resources,” the remarks concluded. “Rather, it may choose not to use them for potential political benefit” while GOP lawmakers attempt to influence Democratic senators to approve legislation that would resume government operations.

States Prepare

Executives in two affected states issued emergency declarations recently to free up resources to address food insecurity preparing for food benefits expiring during the upcoming period.