WASHINGTON — Food assistance relied upon by nearly 3 million New Yorkers — and more than 160,000 Long Islanders — could be delayed next month if the U.S. government shutdown continues, state officials are being warned.

The Trump administration is directing states to stop the process of issuing monthly food benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the name for the program previously known as food stamps.

If the ongoing lapse of federal appropriations to agencies and programs continues, "there will be insufficient funds to pay full November SNAP benefits for approximately 42 million individuals across the nation," a memo to states from the Food and Nutrition Service warns.

In New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Thursday criticized "Washington Republicans" for "playing poli

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