NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The federal government’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is expected to run out of money Saturday as the shutdown in Washington drags on. In response, Louisiana officials are stepping in, but only temporarily.

Governor Jeff Landry announced a plan allowing the Louisiana Department of Health to spend up to $150 million a month in state funds to keep SNAP benefits flowing. The plan prioritizes the elderly, disabled, and children, with payments set to be distributed in stages beginning Nov. 1.

However, about 53,000 able-bodied adults who receive benefits won’t be included in the first round of assistance. Landry says those individuals are being encouraged to seek help from local charities and food banks.

“We’re going to be calling on those more fortuna

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