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Federal agriculture authorities stated on Saturday that SNAP funds under one of the country’s largest support systems won't be issued during the coming month because of the continuing federal government shutdown.

Closure Continues Through Its Third Week

The government shutdown was in its 25th day as officials revealed the news, in response to demands from hundreds of Democratic representatives asking the department to tap into emergency reserves to fund the upcoming nutrition payments.

“Bottom line, resources are exhausted,” officials announced. “Now, assistance will not be provided” starting next month.

Widespread Impact

Tens of millions of people depend on these food benefits, per federal data. In certain states, including one southwestern state, use of the program affects one-fifth of the population.

A memo obtained by Reuters revealed that the department chose not to tap contingency funding to cover next month's assistance.

Political Stalemate

Republicans and Democrats continue to disagree about the way to support and resume federal agencies.

A statement from the head of a prominent policy organization noted that federal leadership had opportunities to prepare in advance to ensure continuous assistance.

“Officials were able and expected to made moves earlier to be prepared to use these funds,” the remarks concluded. “Rather, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to influence Democratic senators to approve legislation to restart the federal government.

Local Responses

Executives in Louisiana and Virginia declared states of emergency this week to free up resources to combat potential hunger expecting SNAP benefits not being issued next month.