SNAP Payments Scheduled to Expire for Tens of Millions Amid Ongoing US Government Shutdown

The United States Department of Agriculture stated this past weekend that SNAP funds from a major federal social assistance programs will not be distributed during the coming month due to the ongoing federal closure.

Closure Continues Through Its Third Week

The federal closure was in nearly a month as officials revealed the news, coming after calls from over 200 Democratic representatives asking the USDA to tap into reserve accounts to cover next month's benefits.

“Bottom line, funds are depleted,” officials announced. “Currently, assistance will not be provided” starting next month.

Widespread Impact

More than 41 million individuals count on these monthly payments, as reported by federal data. Various areas, such as New Mexico, use of SNAP affects 21% of residents.

A memo obtained by journalists showed that the department chose not to tap contingency funding for the upcoming payments.

Partisan Impasse

Congressional leaders continue to disagree regarding how to finance and restart the federal government.

A statement from the head of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities indicated that the White House had chances to prepare in advance to avoid interruption in payments.

“They had the ability and responsibility acted earlier to get ready to access these resources,” the statement continued. “Rather, it may choose not to use them to secure political leverage” as Republicans seek to pressure Senate Democrats to vote for legislation that would resume the federal government.

Emergency Measures

Governors in Louisiana and Virginia declared states of emergency this week to free up resources to address food insecurity preparing for food benefits expiring next month.