Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds has formally requested the USDA to authorize use of unspent prior-year CNMI Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP) funds.
“So that we can keep benefits flowing to the families in our community who really need this as the shutdown continues,” King-Hinds said.
The request aims to continue food assistance during the federal government shutdown, after USDA clarified that no NAP benefits will be issued in November. Earlier, Gov. David Apatang has asked local lawmakers to approve a $3.9 million emergency appropriation to keep food aid flowing.
King-Hinds emphasized that CNMI’s NAP is separate from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP and operates under a capped block grant. She’s not asking for new money—just permission to use existing balances to support over 5,000 households, and 14,000 individuals.
She warned that without action, the commonwealth may be forced to divert local funds, undermining federal relief efforts.
