Starting next month, Idaho will delay issuing food assistance benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP or food stamps.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare says the U.S. Department of Agriculture asked the state for the suspension because of the federal government shutdown. Funding for SNAP is on track to run out in two weeks if the shutdown continues, States Newsroom reported.

In November and until funding resumes, Health and Welfare says it will delay distributing SNAP benefits. Applications to the program in Idaho will still be accepted, but the state agency says it expects longer wait times in call centers and offices.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare says it plans to update its website with any changes to federal guidance or

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