Governor Calls on Legislature to Enact Immediate SNAP Relief for Over 43,000 Guam Residents

Hagåtña, Guam - Governor Lou Leon Guerrero today urged the Thirty-Eighth Guam Legislature to take immediate action on legislation authorizing local funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program amid the ongoing federal government shutdown.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) informed local administering agencies nationwide that, during the federal shutdown, no disbursements will be made for SNAP or WIC. Without local action, Guam's Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) will be unable to issue November benefits to thousands of families who rely on these programs for daily meals and essential nutrition.

DPHSS estimates that $12.3 million in local funds is required to guarantee uninterrupted benefits for November for both programs.

The Legislature convened a special session on Friday, October 24 at 9:00 AM, but recessed until 2:00 PM without taking action on the appropriations measure.

Governor Leon Guerrero called for a clear, swift decision by senators, stating that every day of delay brings families closer to losing the food assistance they depend on.

"Thousands of families are now left uncertain about whether they'll have food next month," said Governor Leon Guerrero. "Every hour without action increases the risk that our manåmko', our children, and our most vulnerable will go hungry. The people of Guam deserve clarity. They deserve a decision now-up or down-so they can prepare."

The Governor reaffirmed her administration's commitment to continue working with USDA and local agencies to ensure that residents experience no disruption in food assistance once funding is approved.