Food Benefits Set to Expire for Tens of Millions Throughout Continuing Federal Shutdown
USDA officials announced recently that monthly food benefits from a major federal social assistance programs are not going out next month due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Closure Continues For Nearly Four Weeks
The government shutdown was in its 25th day at the time of the statement, coming after appeals by more than two hundred Congressional Democrats pushing the USDA to utilize contingency funds to fund November's food assistance.
“Ultimately, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “Now, there will be no benefits issued” starting next month.
Millions Affected
More than 41 million individuals rely on these food benefits, according to the USDA. In certain states, like one southwestern state, dependence on this assistance is as high as 21% of residents.
Documents reviewed by a major news agency revealed that USDA officials chose not to tap contingency funding for November food benefits.
Partisan Impasse
Lawmakers from both parties are still at odds about the way to support and resume the federal government.
A statement from the director at a budget research center suggested that federal leadership had opportunities to prepare in advance to ensure continuous assistance.
“Officials were able and expected to taken steps earlier to make arrangements to use these funds,” the remarks concluded. “Instead, it may choose not to use them for potential political benefit” while GOP lawmakers attempt to push upper chamber Democrats to approve a funding package that would reopen federal functions.
Emergency Measures
Governors in two affected states issued emergency declarations this week to free up resources for hunger relief in anticipation of food benefits expiring in November.
