CHICAGO – State Senator Emil Jones III is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"Political gridlock has a price and our families are paying for it," said Jones (D-Chicago). “The federal administration and Congress must come together in order to stave off further consequences.”

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including the 56,554 people in the district Jones represents who rely on SNAP benefits.

Jones stresses that a long-term solution requires immediate federal intervention.

"Numbers and stats don’t tell the full story," said Jones. “Families are struggling to make ends meet now more than ever, even before the shutdown. The only path forward is swift and decisive action at the federal level."

Jones is coordinating with state officials and community organizations to prepare for potential disruptions and to ensure vulnerable populations have access to emergency food assistance.