BEAUMONT, Texas — With the government shutdown nearing one month, more than three million Texans could lose access to SNAP food benefits this weekend, prompting growing concern among state and local leaders.

More than 50 Democratic lawmakers have sent a letter to Gov. Greg Abbott, urging him to declare a state of emergency to provide aid until federal assistance resumes. Abbott’s office has not said whether he will take action.

Local agencies in Southeast Texas are already feeling the strain. “This is a little bit like paralysis,” said Janci Kimball, CEO of Nutrition and Services for Seniors. “But frankly... we don’t have time to wait.”

Her organization, which runs Meals on Wheels for homebound seniors, relies partly on funding that comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban

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