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USDA officials stated recently that nutrition assistance payments under one of the country’s largest support systems are not going out during the coming month due to the ongoing government funding lapse.

Closure Continues Into 25th Day

The funding lapse was in nearly a month as officials revealed the news, which followed demands from hundreds of House Democrats pushing the department to utilize reserve accounts to cover November's food assistance.

“Bottom line, funds are depleted,” the department confirmed. “Now, there will be no benefits issued” starting next month.

Millions Affected

Tens of millions of people rely on the regular assistance, according to the USDA. In certain states, such as one southwestern state, reliance on SNAP affects a significant portion of citizens.

A memo obtained by journalists indicated that USDA officials chose not to tap reserve funds for the upcoming payments.

Political Stalemate

Lawmakers from both parties continue to disagree about the way to fund and reopen government operations.

Remarks from the director at a budget research center suggested that the White House could have acted to act sooner to avoid interruption in payments.

“They had the ability and responsibility made moves before now to be prepared to use these funds,” the remarks concluded. “Rather, they might decide against it for potential political benefit” while GOP lawmakers attempt to push upper chamber Democrats to approve legislation that would resume government operations.

States Prepare

Executives in Louisiana and Virginia issued emergency declarations recently to make money available to address food insecurity preparing for food benefits expiring next month.