Are Texas And New Mexico Cutting Off SNAP Benefits?

The short answer is yes. Texas, along with 25 other states, will cut SNAP benefits in November for millions of people across the country thanks to the government shutdown.

The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service has issued an order to every state to freeze SNAP benefits until further notice. So far, at least 25 are planning to do so.

In Texas' case, the benefits will stop IF the government shutdown continues beyond October 27th. New Mexico also plans to stop SNAP benefits.

A general fund does exist to provide money for benefits in the event of a shortage but, according to cbsnews.com, "it's unclear if the USDA plans to utilize those funds to ensure November SNAP benefits".

READ MORE: El Pasoans Helping Displaced Federal Workers

This news dropped so fast that many SNAP recipients don't have time to arrange any backup plan. In New Mexico alone, almost half a million people stand to lose their food benefits.

Can Food Banks Or The State(s) Help?

Preparation for such a catastrophic event would take any food bank weeks or even longer to get ready and these cuts are coming in days. As for state support:

 States are scrambling to maintain the programs using money from their own coffers and emergency funding from the Trump administration, but that pot is rapidly decreasing. - politico.com

This whole government shutdown thing is political posturing, (by both parties), and has gotten ridiculous. It's a stupid situation to be in to begin with and now, on top of government employees hurting because they're out of work, families who were already struggling are now in an even worse position. Great job "leaders".

If you are able to help local food banks build their supplies, please contact these organizations:

• El Paso - El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank (915) 298 - 0353
• Las Cruces - Roadrunner Food Bank (575) 523 - 4390