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USDA officials stated this past weekend that nutrition assistance payments from a major federal social assistance programs will not be distributed next month due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Shutdown Extends Into 25th Day

The federal closure had reached three and a half weeks at the time of the statement, in response to appeals by more than two hundred House Democrats pushing the USDA to tap into reserve accounts to pay for next month's benefits.

“Bottom line, the well has run dry,” officials announced. “At this time, 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, use of SNAP affects 21% of residents.

A memo obtained by Reuters revealed that the department would not access emergency reserves for the upcoming payments.

Legislative Deadlock

Republicans and Democrats remain deadlocked over how to fund and reopen the federal government.

Comments by the director at a budget research center indicated that the White House had chances to act sooner to avoid interruption in payments.

“It could have, and should have taken steps before now to be prepared to access these resources,” the comments added. “Rather, officials could opt out in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to pressure Senate Democrats to vote for a funding package that would resume the federal government.

States Prepare

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