KPRC 2 received more information on how the federal government is calculating the reduced SNAP benefits for the month of November as the government shutdown endures its record-tying 35th day.

After SNAP benefits were halted Saturday, the USDA reminded retailers they must comply with the Equal Treatment Rule, which bars special food discounts for SNAP/EBT customers.

Effects of the pause will be especially widespread in Texas, which has the highest population of food insecure people in the country.

If the federal shutdown continues past Oct. 27, funding for SNAP food assistance will run out in Texas, potentially leaving 3.5 million residents without benefits.

East Texans are eligible for SNAP benefits, according to Tim Butler, the food bank’s chief impact officer. He said half of those people are children.

The calls to the Republican governor came as the food stamp program was set to run out of funding amid the government shutdown.

The potential SNAP benefit delay could increase growing hunger crisis in Texas, a state which has the highest population of food insecure people in the U.S.

Although states will issue partial November SNAP benefits during the shutdown, it was announced on Monday, North Texas families who count on those benefits say it's unclear when the benefits will reach them. They're thankful for local businesses and organizations stepping up to help during this difficult time.

HOUSTON — The USDA is reminding Texas retailers that all customers — including those using SNAP benefits — must be treated equally at the register. The warning comes as the Trump administration announced plans to partially restore SNAP benefits for more than 350,000 people in the Houston area who depend on them.

The Trump administration agreed to issue partial benefits to SNAP recepients following two federal court rulings. However, the calculations and distributions could take anywhere from days to months.