Minnesota is one of the 26 states suing the Trump administration for what it contends is the illegal suspension of SNAP benefits, also known as food stamps, during the federal government shutdown.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — more commonly known as SNAP, or food stamps — is a key benefits program that serves more than 40 million people across the country. Now, the shutdown is threatening to temporarily suspend benefits, raising concerns over where millions of people who rely on the program will turn to for food.

On Oct. 10, the USDA sent a letter to SNAP agencies saying that if the shutdown continues, there will be insufficient funds to pay for November.

DCYF sent an email to Minnesota’s 87 counties and 11 tribal nations earlier this week, laying out a timeline that appears to taper off the distribution of benefits.

The Agriculture Department said it can't use contingency funds to pay for SNAP benefits, contradicting earlier guidance that the money was available.

"Bottom line, the well has run dry. At this time, there will be no benefits issued on November 1," the USDA posted on Tuesday.