SNAP Benefits & Potential Risks - SNAP benefits are expected to be available for October, but the situation could become uncertain if the shutdown extends into November [1] - The National Wick Association is demanding the release of SNAP funds, reflecting concerns about potential disruptions [10] - The shutdown has caused anger, distrust, and sadness among SNAP recipients and state partners [10] Employee Retaliation & Labor Rights - A federal worker, Ellen May, claims she is facing retaliation, including potential termination, for speaking out about the shutdown's impact on SNAP benefits in an interview [1][3] - The agency stated that May was not authorized to speak on its behalf and disclosed unauthorized information [3] - May asserts she was representing her own views and those of her union chapter members, which she believes is protected activity under federal labor management statutes [4][7] - May is consulting with lawyers at the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) to appeal the notice [9] Agency Operations & Impact of Shutdown - The Agriculture Department's press office indicated that monitoring of the press inbox may be impacted due to staff furloughs resulting from the shutdown [1] - The shutdown has affected the ability of federal workers to assist state agencies and SNAP recipients in addressing the shutdown's effects [10] - The shutdown has led to overworked and exhausted staff since April, when half of the office staff was lost [1]