Capitol News

Michigan's Democratic Congressional delegation has called on the Trump administration to use contingency funds to maintain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments during the ongoing federal government shutdown. Congresswomen Kristen McDonald-Rivet and Hillary Scholten led the effort, addressing their concerns in a letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.

According to the lawmakers, nearly 1.4 million residents in Michigan could lose access to SNAP benefits starting November 1 if no action is taken. The letter emphasizes that almost half of these recipients are families with children.

The delegation argues that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can use existing contingency funds to continue food assistance payments for at least several weeks in November. "While we fight for a budget that lowers costs and addresses skyrocketing health care premiums, the administration is making a deliberate decision to let families go hungry," said McDonald Rivet.

The government shutdown began after federal funding lapsed at midnight on October 1. Republican leaders have stated they support a short-term funding agreement without policy changes, while Democrats want negotiations over expanded subsidies for health care insurance premiums under the Affordable Care Act, which are set to expire December 31.

The letter from Michigan’s six House Democrats highlights concerns about potential food insecurity if SNAP payments are disrupted and urges immediate administrative action.