Nutrition Assistance Set to Expire for Tens of Millions Throughout Prolonged Government Closure

The United States Department of Agriculture stated this past weekend that monthly food benefits through a critical national social assistance programs will not be distributed next month because of the continuing government funding lapse.

Shutdown Extends Through Its Third Week

The government shutdown was in three and a half weeks at the time of the statement, in response to calls from over 200 House Democrats urging agriculture officials to tap into emergency reserves to cover the upcoming nutrition payments.

“Ultimately, funds are depleted,” the department confirmed. “Currently, assistance will not be provided” on 1 November.

Millions Affected

Tens of millions of people count on the regular assistance, according to the USDA. Various areas, such as one southwestern state, use of this assistance is as high as a significant portion of citizens.

Documents reviewed by journalists showed that the department chose not to tap reserve funds for November food benefits.

Partisan Impasse

Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked about the way to fund and reopen federal agencies.

Comments by the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities noted that the White House had chances to prepare in advance to avoid interruption in payments.

“It could have, and should have taken steps earlier to be prepared to use these funds,” the comments added. “Instead, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to influence Democratic senators to approve a funding package to restart the federal government.

States Prepare

Executives in multiple regions declared states of emergency recently to make money available to address food insecurity preparing for nutrition assistance payments stopping next month.