A federal program that provides food assistance to 40 million low-income people could be at risk in November if the government shutdown isn’t resolved. As some states halt new applications for the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), uncertainty looms over its future. SNAP benefits, crucial for 1 in 8 people in the US, are funded differently than other safety net programs, making them vulnerable during these budget disputes. In October, the U.S. Department of Agriculture informed state agencies to pause sending certain information needed for EBT card distribution, resulting in widespread concern, particularly in states like New Mexico, where over 20% of residents depend on these benefits. As legislators grapple with potential solutions, the looming reality is that without a budget agreement, significant funding and operations could cease, further complicating SNAP's challenges amidst new policies affecting eligibility starting in January.
SNAP Benefits at Risk Amidst Government Shutdown Uncertainty
The Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), which aids over 40 million low-income individuals in the US, faces potential disruptions if the government shutdown isn't resolved by November.
A federal food assistance program, SNAP, could be jeopardized as the government shutdown continues, impacting 1 in 8 Americans who rely on food stamps for grocery purchases. With uncertain funding and some states halting new applications, concerns rise over the program's future as November approaches.
