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Federal agriculture authorities declared this past weekend that nutrition assistance payments through a critical national support systems are not going out in November because of the continuing federal government shutdown.

Shutdown Extends Into 25th Day

The federal closure had reached three and a half weeks as officials revealed the news, which followed demands from hundreds of House Democrats pushing the USDA to utilize reserve accounts to cover next month's benefits.

“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the department confirmed. “At this time, there will be no benefits issued” starting next month.

National Consequences

Over 40 million Americans depend on the regular assistance, according to federal data. Some regions, such as one southwestern state, dependence on SNAP affects one-fifth of the population.

A memo obtained by a major news agency indicated that USDA officials chose not to tap reserve funds for the upcoming payments.

Partisan Impasse

Lawmakers from both parties continue to disagree regarding how to finance and restart the federal government.

Comments by the director at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities noted that the administration had opportunities to take earlier action to ensure continuous assistance.

“It could have, and should have taken steps weeks ago to make arrangements to access these resources,” the remarks concluded. “Rather, they might decide against it for potential political benefit” as conservative leaders work to push upper chamber Democrats to vote for a funding package that would resume federal functions.

States Prepare

Governors in two affected states issued emergency declarations in recent days to free up resources to combat potential hunger expecting nutrition assistance payments stopping next month.