Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo is responding to suggestions from multiple Nevada lawmakers that state funds could be used to support the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, during the government shutdown.
In a statement directly addressing Nevada Congressional Representatives Steven Horsford, Dina Titus, and Susie Lee, the Governor said the proposed solution is not viable.
“The USDA has made clear that states cannot use their own dollars to fund federal SNAP benefits, even on a temporary basis, and cannot share SNAP household data with vendors to do so,” said Governor Lombardo in a statement.
In a letter issued to the three Nevada House members, the Governor said that, per a USDA memo issued October 10, the state could seek access to reverted General Fund dollars, unspent American Rescue Plan Act funding, or Rainy Day Funds through legislative authorization to fund emergency benefits short term, but the emergency program would need to remain separate and distinct from SNAP.
Earlier Friday, Nevada Treasurer Zach Conine had also called for state leaders in Carson City to develop a solution to preserve SNAP benefits.
"It’s time for Nevada leaders to take charge and come up with a bipartisan solution to help the 495,000 Nevadans who receive food assistance," said Conine. “Because of our team’s responsible fiscal management and record investment returns, and the highest Rainy Day Fund balance in history, the State has the money to provide emergency financial assistance to Nevadans who will lose their SNAP benefits due to the shutdown."
Conine also said the state treasury will work to seek additional ways to help Nevadans.
The Governor has revealed a number of steps being taken by his administration to support Nevadans affected by the shutdown.
Those solutions include:
- Directing the Governor’s Finance Office, the Department of Human Services, and the Department of Agriculture to expand support for local food banks and community partners that serve SNAP beneficiaries;
- Preparing to engage the Nevada National Guard to assist with food distribution to those in need; and
- Continuing coordination with federal agencies and the White House to mitigate impacts on Nevada families.
You can read Governor Lombardo's full letter here.
You can read the full press release from State Treasurer Zach Conine here.
