Alabama Department of Human Resources talks SNAP benefit suspension

HUNTSVILLE, Ala (WHNT) — Millions rely on food assistance each month, and with the government shutdown still in place, food stamps will soon run dry. 

“We issue to 750,000 Alabamians each month, and around $142 million of that will not be available to those SNAP recipients in the month of November,” Brandon Hardin, SNAP Director for Alabama, said.

He said the USDA notified them of the upcoming suspension last Friday.

He said starting November 1, new money will no longer be uploaded onto your EBT card, but if you have money left over from previous months, you can still use it. 

Hardin explains there is a nine-month window from the last time you use the card.

Despite the halt in assistance, Hardin said it’s crucial to continue filling out the required paperwork, and people should still apply for assistance as needed.

“We just encourage them to continue to submit whatever paperwork that is necessary to continue their certifications,” he said. “Also, if they feel like they need to apply, go ahead and apply, so we can get those benefits out as soon as possible as soon as the shutdown is lifted.”

Alabama lawmakers in Washington also weighed in on the effects of SNAP benefits during the government shutdown. Senator Katie Britt said she’s attempting to protect SNAP benefits as she backs the “Keep SNAP Funded Act.”

Senator Tommy Tuberville said he hopes democrats will join him in voting to reopen the government.

Congressman Robert Aderholt said that Americans shouldn’t wonder how they will put food on the table as a result of partisan disagreement.

He provided News 19 with this statement:

“Food assistance benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will lapse on November 1 simply because Washington can’t keep the government open. This failure is completely avoidable. Working families should never be used as leverage in partisan battles. If Democrats wish to open discussions about Affordable Care Act subsidies, I say let’s do that — but let’s keep the government running while we talk. Let’s not shut down vital services and leave millions of Americans wondering how they’ll put food on the table.”
Congressman Robert Aderholt

Hardin said DHR is also looking to see a solution in the near future.

“Our hope is that a resolution happens very soon so that individuals who are low income individuals and those that are senior and children can get these benefits as soon as possible,” he said.