ST. CLOUD (AP) — Officials and advocates for low-income families in central Minnesota say cuts to the food stamp program could have harsh effects in the area.

The federal farm bill expires at the end of the month. And gridlock over changes in funding for food programs has stalled passage of a new bill in the House.

Benton County Human Services financial supervisor Janel Sczublewski says that if cuts to the food stamp program become a reality, the county can't do anything financially to supplement assistance for people who will see a cut in benefits.

Area food shelves, the Salvation Army, and other groups that assist low-income families are expected to see an increase in the number of people they serve.

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