Over 63,000 low-income residents in Vermont may face the loss of critical federal food benefits next month if the ongoing government shutdown persists through October. Officials from the Trump administration have informed state representatives that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may be underfunded without a continuing resolution from Congress by the end of the month.
Vermont’s state legislature approved a budget in May that earmarked approximately $100 million to help cover any potential gaps in federal funding. However, Jenney Samuelson, the Secretary of Human Services, cautioned lawmakers that utilizing these reserves might not be feasible. She explained that the U.S. Department of Agriculture indicated to her agency that they could suspend the electronic transfer system that feeds funds onto SNAP recipients’ cards, potentially rendering them inactive starting November 1.
Samuelson highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting, “EBT cards don’t function in retail settings unless the federal government releases data to a national vendor on which the EBT payment system relies. They are not going to be releasing that data.” This uncertainty leaves many Vermonters worried about their ability to buy food when essential SNAP benefits may be halted.
Adding to the concern, the federal shutdown has also stalled $22.5 million in expected funding for Vermont’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and raised doubts about $4 million needed for the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program, which supports initiatives like Reach Up.
Vermont officials, including Administration Secretary Sarah Clark, expressed their discomfort with the ongoing uncertainties, emphasizing a need for clarity from federal authorities. Clark acknowledged the complexity of the situation, saying, “There’s a lot of unknown right now that we’re trying to navigate in partnership with you that is uncomfortable for everybody.”
As lawmakers urged Samuelson for contingency strategies in case food and fuel assistance is impacted, she refrained from providing specific plans, citing ongoing development efforts. Despite the lack of detailed plans, some legislators, such as Democratic Sen. Andrew Perchlik, have advocated for using state reserves to cushion the blow caused by potential funding losses.
Perchlik raised alarm over the implications of beneficiaries discovering a halt in their SNAP benefits on November 1, questioning the ramifications for families in need of heating fuel as winter approaches. He remarked on the pressing nature of the circumstances, urging immediate action to deploy state funds to mitigate adverse outcomes.
In light of the uncertainties surrounding federal assistance programs, there remains a glimmer of hope as state lawmakers explore the use of available funds to provide relief to those most at risk. The collaboration between state officials and the legislature reflects a commitment to safeguarding Vermont’s vulnerable populations during challenging times.