Illinois SNAP Benefits at Risk as Federal Shutdown Continues
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Roughly 1.9 million Illinois residents could see their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits interrupted starting November 1st as the ongoing federal government shutdown jeopardizes funding for the program.Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker sharply criticized Republicans and the Trump Management for the potential disruption.
The shortfall stems from a lack of federal funds allocated to SNAP due to the budget impasse in Washington D.C. The program, which provides over $350 million in monthly assistance to Illinois families, is entirely federally funded, and the state lacks the resources to cover the costs itself.
“Working families across Illinois are about to go without food assistance because Trump and Congressional Republicans want to score political points and refuse to reach a deal that reopens the federal government,” Pritzker stated in a press release. He further questioned the prioritization of resources, asking, “Why is it that they can find the money during a shutdown to pay their masked federal agents wreaking havoc in our communities but not help peopel in need put food on the table?”
Nationwide, approximately 42 million people rely on SNAP benefits, according to a recent USA Today report.The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) notified state agencies of the funding lapse in a letter dated October 10th.
Governor Pritzker emphasized the impact on vulnerable populations, stating, “One child going hungry in America is one too manny – this used to be a value we could all agree upon. The Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans need to do their damn job and start delivering for the American people.”
The federal government shutdown reached its 16th day on October 16th after the U.S. Senate failed for the eighth time to overcome a budget impasse. The future of SNAP funding in Illinois, and across the contry, remains uncertain until a resolution is reached.
