PRESS RELEASE: Choctaw Nation welcomes deal to reopen federal government

Indianz.Com > News > PRESS RELEASE: Choctaw Nation welcomes deal to reopen federal government

Choctaw Nation Statement on Potential Federal Government Reopening, Continuation of Food Program

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Indianz.Com

The following is the text of a November 12, 2025, news release from the Choctaw Nation.

DURANT, Oklahoma — Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) Chief Gary Batton released a statement regarding the potential reopening of the federal government and the effect on the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

“We are pleased to see members of Congress appear ready to set aside their differences and continue their work to serve all Americans,” Batton said. “Because of the uncertainty about when vital SNAP funds will be available, the Choctaw Nation will continue help Tribal members impacted by this delay in funding.”

Earlier, the Tribe launched a temporary program that allows eligible Tribal members and guardians of Tribal member children nationwide to apply for a one-time $150 food assistance. Applications remain open through November 14 through the Chata Achvffa member services portal on CNO’s website.

Once approved, recipients will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card through the mail.

“To date, we have received more than 6,700 applications, and we have provided $1.8 million to help people feed their families. This is what it means to put our values into action and serve our Members when they need us most,” Batton said.

To learn more, visit choctawnation.com/services/chahta-achvffa

About the Choctaw Nation
The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian Nation in the United States with more than 230,000 tribal members and 13,000-plus associates. This ancient people has an oral tradition dating back over 13,000 years. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, its historic reservation boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma, covering 10,923 square miles. The Choctaw Nation’s vision, “Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture,” is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity. For more information about the Choctaw Nation, its culture, heritage and traditions, please go to choctawnation.com.