86,000 Utah families could lose food benefits. Will the state cover the cost?

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Eight-six thousand Utah families may lose SNAP benefits due to federal shutdown impacts.

State officials won't cover the $33 million but seek alternative support options.

Utah charities and nonprofits mobilize to address potential food insecurity increase.

SALT LAKE CITY — As tens of thousands of state residents stand to lose their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Payments, state officials say they won't backfill the lost federal funds but are looking for ways to help those in need.

Utah Senate President Stuart Adams said if the shutdown persists, it is "unrealistic" for the state to provide the $33 million needed to fully fund SNAP in November for the 86,000 households and 177,000 individuals in Utah who rely on it for food subsidies.