Funding for SNAP to run out in November if government shutdown continues

Millions of Americans, including across the Inland Northwest, are at risk of losing their SNAP benefits in November if the ongoing government shutdown in Washington, D.C. continues.

SNAP, also known as food stamps, is under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The department said in a letter to to states on October 10 that funding to cover benefits will run out by November.

In Washington state, around one million people receive SNAP benefits. In Idaho, that number is around 133,000 people.

In an email, a spokesperson from USDA wrote, “We are approaching an inflection point for Senate Democrats. Continue to hold out for healthcare for illegals or reopen the government so mothers, babies, and the most vulnerable among us can receive timely WIC and SNAP allotments.”