The authorities in the US will start implementing a cut in food stamp allocations in the country from today in a move that could impact the people dependent on the state.

The government's supplemental nutritional assistance program (SNAP) and benefits for a family of four will be reduced by $36 a month. The scheme provides assistance to about 48 million people in the country. The benefits were increased as part of the Recovery Act in 2009 but the US congress has decided not to renew the benefits this year.

Some suggest that the cut will impact the shoppers as well as the retailers in the country, who are looking to boost sales during the crucial holiday season. Walmart and Target have both lowered that forecast for the year. Discounters, dollar stores and convenience stores would all record fall in sales form the shoppers on state assistance. Some say that the retailers will increase promotional activity, discounts, deals and coupons leading up to the holiday season. Aggressive promotions form leading retailers like Walmart and Target will also force others to follow soon.