The SNAP food assistance program is set to shut down Saturday. Until the federal government reopens, some leaders said the state can help provide those food benefits.
“The food bank is certainly treating this almost as a disaster,” said Nicole Williams, CEO of the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama.
Williams said the disaster of a government shutdown is causing a massive strain. With the holidays coming up and people possibly going without food assistance, she said her food bank will have to stretch to meet the needs of families.
“We are working to make sure people know where to find food and access it near where they live,” Williams said.
That’s why Senate Democrats are calling for help on the state level. In their letter to the governor, leaders said reserve funds can be used to prevent a lapse in assistance caused by the government shutdown.
State Sen. Robert Stewart, D-Selma, described the suspension of SNAP benefits as an emergency. He explained how the lapse would not only harm recipients, but also businesses who rely on the revenue made from SNAP purchases.
“If we can help them get through these next couple months, it is a worthwhile–it is always a worthwhile cause–to keep our economy going,” Stewart said.
State Rep. Mack Butler, R-Rainbow City, agreed that no one should go hungry. While he’s confident the government will open before Saturday, Butler said both parties in Congress need to resolve their differences.
“This nonsense really needs to stop,” Butler said. “With a couple of easy bills, I think you could stop it. Literally, they can’t run for reelection, or they don’t get paid either”
On the state level, Stewart said lawmakers can work together to find a solution.
“Charity is good, but charity does not and should not replace a government that works for the people,” Stewart said. “So I want to reiterate how we need to come together and work and come up with a solution to work for Alabamians.”
Gina Maiola with the governor’s office said in a statement that Ivey has no plans to call a special session.
“As Alabama DHR noted, SNAP benefits are 100% federally funded, and therefore, U.S. Food and Nutrition Services controls the issuance of these benefits on EBT cards,” the statement reads. “While the state does not have extra money to do Congress’ job, Governor Ivey hopes to see U.S. Senate Democrats get on board to reopen the federal government.”
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