WASHINGTON — Representative Kimberlyn King-Hinds said the CNMI’s Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP) is fully funded for the rest of the federal fiscal year, and that those benefits will remain secure regardless of what happens when the current temporary federal funding expires on January 30.
In a video update posted on her social media account, King-Hinds said Congress approved full-year funding for some agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which administers NAP. She said that move protects food assistance for families who rely on the program.
King-Hinds said temporary funding for the rest of the federal government is set to expire at the end of the month, while remaining bills, including Homeland Security. are still being finalized. She said she is watching those negotiations closely, citing concern about potential impacts to CNMI “frontliners” funded under Homeland Security if talks stall.
She added that congressional leadership has discussed canceling recess and keeping Congress in session until the work is finished, saying that signals pressure to avoid another shutdown and complete the remaining funding bills.
King-Hinds also addressed questions about the transition from paper coupons to EBT, saying unused benefits roll over month to month. However, she said all benefits must be used before the end of the federal fiscal year because unused benefits expire after that and are returned to USDA.
On the NAP “70-30 rule,” King-Hinds said 70% of benefits can be used for regular groceries and 30% is reserved to support local products, including items such as fresh fish, local meats, locally grown fruits and vegetables, and certain fishing and gardening supplies. She encouraged residents with questions to contact the NAP office.
King-Hinds closed with a warning about fraud in benefits programs, saying abuse can put the program “under a microscope” and lead to cuts or new restrictions that harm families who need assistance. She urged vendors to follow the rules and recipients to use benefits honestly.
