USDA Exploring Options to Continue Food Stamps Through Shutdown

The USDA is exploring ways to continue SNAP payments if the government shutdown lingers through February.  USDA has already claimed to find authority to reopen FSA offices this week, and with SNAP benefits for March uncertain, the Trump Administration is seeking a way to keep recipients receiving benefits.

USDA spokesperson Tim Murtaugh told Reuters “We continue to examine our options for SNAP benefits in March.”  No shutdown of the federal government has ever lasted long enough to stall SNAP benefits.  USDA released the February benefits early, allowed by a legal provision that allowed money to be allocated within 30 days of a shutdown, but the Trump administration has not identified publicly a mechanism to extend the program into March.

USDA says the best solution is “for Congress to pass appropriations legislation in a form the President can sign.”

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com