"The document states that the contingency fund is reserved for such things as helping individuals in disaster areas. It cited Tropical Storm Melissa, which could become a major hurricane in the coming days, as an example of why it's important to have funds available to mobilize quickly in the event of a disaster. The document was obtained by The Associated Press and was first reported by Axios."
"The document blames Democrats for the government shutdown that began Oct. 1 and states that November SNAP benefits would be paid on time "if not for Congressional Democrats blocking government funding." House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries earlier Friday told reporters the administration has the resources to ensure than not a single American goes hungry on Nov. 1. He accused Republicans of "trying to weaponize hunger" and called it unconscionable."
The administration rejects using roughly $5 billion in contingency funds to keep SNAP benefits flowing into November during the government shutdown. States that temporarily cover benefit costs next month will not be reimbursed. Advocates and Democratic lawmakers urged use of contingency funds to provide partial SNAP benefits into November. Contingency funds are described as legally unavailable for regular benefits and are reserved for emergency responses such as disasters. Tropical Storm Melissa is cited as an example of why funds must be available for rapid disaster mobilization. SNAP helps about one in eight Americans buy groceries and the prospect of benefits running out has raised major concern across states.
Read at ABC7 Chicago
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