Federal Shutdown Threatens Paychecks and Food Assistance for Missouri Families

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Missouri families could soon feel the effects of the federal government shutdown in their wallets and on their dinner tables.

Governor Mike Kehoe’s office says about 56,000 federal employees in Missouri may miss their next paycheck if the shutdown continues. The Missouri Department of Social Services also warns that November SNAP benefits for more than 667,000 residents, and WIC support for nearly 98,000 mothers and children, are at risk without federal funding. Kehoe noted that SNAP benefits are fully federally funded, and the state cannot step in to replace those dollars. He added that Missouri’s economy could lose roughly $232 million each week during the shutdown, with unemployment potentially rising by 800 workers if it lasts a month.

The governor said the shutdown is already hurting Missouri families, small businesses, veterans, and federal workers across the state.