Shelby Review

State Representative Ron Robinson (R-Utica) addressed concerns regarding the delay in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments, which the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) attributed to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Robinson stated, “Families in our community rely on SNAP to put food on the table, that’s what makes this delay so frustrating and concerning. While the federal shutdown is causing disruptions beyond our control, I want to assure the people of our district that here in Michigan, we are not in a shutdown and have taken strong, bipartisan steps to protect critical services."

He explained that Michigan recently passed a bipartisan state budget which has helped avoid a state-level shutdown. Robinson noted, “In Michigan we avoided a shutdown by passing a bipartisan state budget earlier this month. Our budget ensures that Medicaid coverage remains secure, our hospitals, police departments, and veterans’ services remain open and serving citizens, and our schools continue to operate without missing a beat."

Robinson also commented on efforts at the state level despite ongoing issues at the federal level: “Even though Congress is still struggling to resolve the federal shutdown, our priority is putting people first and working together across party lines to keep Michigan strong. As the shutdown persists, we’ll keep fighting to lessen the impact on our residents and support those who depend on these vital programs every day.”

Residents experiencing difficulties due to SNAP payment delays are encouraged to call 2-1-1 for assistance with local food resources or visit the Food Bank Council of Michigan website for information about nearby food banks and hunger relief initiatives.