ATLANTA — Time is ticking in Georgia for millions who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Benefits could be paused as soon as Saturday, Nov. 1, if Congress fails to reach a resolution to end the ongoing federal government shutdown.

More than 1.4 million Georgians, including over 600,000 children, rely on SNAP benefits — roughly one-in-eight residents across the state, according to data from the Georgia Department of Human Services.

Democratic lawmakers are urging Governor Brian Kemp to call a special legislative session to tap into Georgia’s $15 billion budget surplus to help families affected by the federal funding lapse.

“These are cooks, agriculture workers, hairdressers and nursing aides who lose their benefits on Saturday,” said Jason Esteves, former state

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