Next week, due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are set to expire for 1.4 million North Carolinians, including more than 480,000 children. Meanwhile, the NC House unanimously passed a bill to address gaps in Medicaid funding, but the Senate adjourned without taking it up. Together, these developments place the health and well-being of students and families at critical risk, requiring action at both the federal and state levels.
Federal Shutdown Threatens Access to Food Assistance
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) announced this week that SNAP benefits will be disrupted due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. While funding through the end of October remains intact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) stated it cannot release contingency funds because those dollars are not legally available to cover regular benefits once appropriations have lapsed. In response, Attorney General Jackson filed suit against the USDA and the Office of Management and Budget, asserting that, “They have emergency money to help feed children during this shutdown, and they’re refusing to spend it.”
Public Schools as a Critical Safety Net
Unlike private and charter schools, public schools are required to offer breakfast and lunch to students. Children in families receiving SNAP benefits automatically qualify for free school meals, which makes these programs even more essential as families face the loss of SNAP support on November 1. Research shows that participation in school meal programs reduces food insecurity and poor health, while improving attendance and academic success. While schools can provide stability during the day, ensuring that students have consistent access to food beyond school hours remains critical to both their health and learning.
State Inaction on Medicaid FundingLast week, the North Carolina House unanimously passed HB 491 (Medicaid Rebase Funding), which allocates $190 million to stabilize Medicaid funding. The Senate, however, did not take up the measure before adjourning for the month. According to NCDHHS, “Medicaid provides health coverage to 1 in 4 North Carolinians—that’s more than 3 million children, pregnant women, older adults, people with disabilities and working North Carolinians.” Continued uncertainty around both Medicaid and SNAP funding threatens access to basic needs that directly affect children’s ability to learn, grow, and thrive.
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