Summary
Federal funding for programs that help many Americans, like early education and food assistance, has stopped. This is because the government shutdown has lasted for four weeks. The shutdown is affecting people beyond just government workers, causing financial difficulties for many families.
Key Facts
- The government shutdown is in its fourth week, affecting more than just federal employees.
- Federal funding cuts are impacting various programs like early education, food aid, and utility bill assistance.
- About 22 million people may see a big increase in their health insurance premiums if tax credits related to the Affordable Care Act are not extended.
- Approximately 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP, a federal food assistance program, may lose their benefits as of November 1.
- 65,000 children who attend Head Start programs might not be able to go to their classrooms, affecting nearly 140 programs in 41 states and Puerto Rico.
- The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program funding, $3.6 billion, is delayed, impacting around 5 million households just as winter approaches.
- Many households are already behind on their energy bills, which could become a bigger problem due to this delay.
