As the federal government shutdown continues, Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C-Adirondack) has called on New York Governor Kathy Hochul to use the state’s Rainy Day Fund to support residents relying on key assistance programs. The shutdown has left many families in New York uncertain about their access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).
Simpson emphasized bipartisan concern in the legislature over how vulnerable populations are affected by the ongoing budget impasse at the federal level. He highlighted that lawmakers from both chambers and parties have urged state intervention until a resolution is reached.
“New York has both the resources and the responsibility to ensure no one goes hungry or cold while Washington remains gridlocked. Our $4.8 billion Rainy Day Fund exists for exactly these contingencies. Five states have already stepped up with state funds to bridge the gap. I respectfully call on the governor to temporarily tap reserves to maintain SNAP and HEAP benefits. New York is more than capable of caring for our own during this federal shutdown, and we have a moral obligation to do so,” said Simpson.
According to Simpson, other states have already used their own funds to maintain similar services during federal disruptions.
