Nutrition Assistance Expected to Expire for Tens of Millions Amid Continuing US Government Shutdown
USDA officials declared on Saturday that monthly food benefits through a critical national welfare initiatives will not be distributed in November amid the persistent federal government shutdown.
Shutdown Extends Into 25th Day
The federal closure was in its 25th day when the announcement was made, in response to calls from over 200 House Democrats urging the USDA to utilize reserve accounts to cover next month's benefits.
“The reality is, funds are depleted,” officials announced. “Now, assistance will not be provided” on 1 November.
National Consequences
Over 40 million Americans rely on the regular assistance, as reported by federal data. Some regions, including New Mexico, dependence on this assistance is as high as 21% of residents.
Internal communications seen by Reuters revealed that federal authorities would not access reserve funds for November food benefits.
Partisan Impasse
Republicans and Democrats are still at odds over how to fund and reopen government operations.
A statement from the leader of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities indicated that the White House had opportunities to prepare in advance to ensure continuous assistance.
“Officials were able and expected to made moves earlier to make arrangements to use these funds,” the comments added. “Conversely, it may choose not to use them to secure political leverage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to influence Democratic senators to vote for a spending bill that would resume the federal government.
Emergency Measures
State leaders from two affected states declared states of emergency in recent days to allocate funds to address food insecurity in anticipation of food benefits expiring in November.
