The Spotsylvania County Department of Social Services issued an urgent notice Thursday to inform the public that all Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients are facing a “high probability” of seeing delayed or interrupted benefit issuance for November if the federal government shutdown continues.
Michael Muse, director of the Stafford County Department of Social Services, said his agency is impacted as well, calling it a statewide and national issue. Muse said he was awaiting state guidance before releasing a statement.
Spotsylvania County Director of Community Engagement Michelle McGinnis noted that federal funding for SNAP is dependent on an appropriation bill from the U.S. Congress. The federal government shut down Oct. 1 when the new fiscal year began.
October SNAP benefits were funded prior to the shutdown and were issued on a normal schedule. However, November benefits require the federal government to approve and disburse funds to states and for the United States Department of Agriculture to instruct states to submit electronic files to EBT vendors by a mid-October deadline.
“The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has advised states not to submit the necessary client files for November benefits at this time,” McGinnis noted in a statement. “This action is the necessary precursor to delay or stop the issuance of your benefits.”
If the government reopens and passes funding this week, benefits should be issued as quickly as possible, potentially on time or with a minor delay. Should the government shutdown continue beyond October, November SNAP benefits will be delayed or not issued at all.
“Our agency has been instructed to prepare for a lack of federal funding and a potential lapse in state authorization to process payment,” McGinnis’ statement read.
Spotsylvania officials said they understand the hardship created if SNAP benefits are delayed or not issued. They encouraged residents to take immediate steps by conserving current benefits and monitoring official communications.
“Use your remaining October SNAP benefits and any household funds wisely,” the statement advised. “If possible, prioritize the purchase of non-perishable food items.”
Spotsylvania officials are working with local food banks and community organizations to assist with food insecurity. Residents can contact the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank or dial 211 for information on emergency food resources in the area.
“Until further notice from the federal government, we cannot guarantee the availability or issuance date of your November SNAP benefits,” McGinnis noted. “Please make preparations for a lapse in this essential assistance.”
For anyone interested in applying for benefits or recertifying current benefits, state and county SNAP offices remain open and will continue to process applications. The approval of any new or ongoing cases for November benefits is dependent on federal action.
