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USDA officials declared recently that nutrition assistance payments under one of the country’s largest welfare initiatives will not be distributed in November because of the continuing federal closure.

Closure Continues For Nearly Four Weeks

The government shutdown lasted its 25th day at the time of the statement, coming after calls from over 200 Congressional Democrats asking the USDA to utilize contingency funds to fund next month's benefits.

“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the USDA stated. “At this time, no payments will be distributed” starting next month.

Millions Affected

More than 41 million individuals count on these food benefits, as reported by federal data. Some regions, such as one southwestern state, dependence on the program is as high as 21% of residents.

Documents reviewed by a major news agency revealed that federal authorities decided against using emergency reserves to cover next month's assistance.

Legislative Deadlock

Congressional leaders continue to disagree about the way to fund and reopen the federal government.

Remarks from the head of a budget research center suggested that the White House had chances to act sooner to prevent benefits from running out.

“Officials were able and expected to taken steps before now to be prepared to use these funds,” the statement continued. “Conversely, officials could opt out for potential political benefit” as Republicans seek to influence Democratic senators to support legislation that would reopen government operations.

Emergency Measures

Governors in Louisiana and Virginia declared states of emergency in recent days to free up resources for hunger relief in anticipation of food benefits expiring in November.