Related video above: Federal lawmakers debated the merits of these SNAP restrictions in 2024
(NEXSTAR) – This week sees the introduction of new restrictions on SNAP purchases in three states: Oklahoma, Idaho, and Louisiana. The changes are aimed at banning the use of government food benefits for sugary beverages and candies, highlighting a broader initiative to promote healthier eating habits among recipients of federal assistance.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which administers the SNAP program, has approved waivers for 18 states as part of this evolving effort. While each state’s rules may differ, the overarching trend restricts SNAP beneficiaries from using their monthly benefits to purchase items like soda, energy drinks, and candy.
These new regulations took effect on Sunday in Idaho and Oklahoma, while Louisiana will see these changes begin on Wednesday.
The following phase of changes is expected to roll out in five additional states—Colorado, Florida, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. Retailers in these states must comply with the new guidelines by April. (For details on restrictions in each state, see the map below.)
Each state has some discretion over what constitutes the banned items. For instance, Oklahoma defines restricted drinks as “any beverage marketed or sold as a soda, soft drink, sports drink, energy drink, flavored water, or juice drink containing less than 100% juice.”
In addition to sugary drinks, Oklahoma’s definition of restricted candy includes everything from standard chocolate bars to chocolate-covered nuts and fruits.
Iowa is adopting a different method by limiting SNAP purchases to non-taxable food items. With sales tax applied to items such as candy, prepared foods, and soft drinks, these products will no longer be eligible for SNAP benefits starting in January.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins stated, “With these new waivers, we are empowering states to lead, protecting our children from the dangers of highly-processed foods, and moving one step closer to the President’s promise to Make America Healthy Again,” in a press release.
However, critics argue that these restrictions disproportionately affect low-income Americans. Chris Bernard from Hunger Free Oklahoma remarked, “It’s an opportunity to say you’re doing something, while really just stigmatizing a single group of people for choices that everybody in America really makes,” in response to the new regulations.
SNAP, which was formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, serves roughly 1 in 8 Americans, assisting them in obtaining groceries.
The recent bans on soda and candy are not the only limitations on SNAP benefits. Non-food items (such as soaps and paper products), alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medications, and hot foods are universally prohibited for purchase using SNAP benefits.
Key Takeaways
- Three states—Oklahoma, Idaho, and Louisiana—are enacting new SNAP purchase restrictions.
- Restrictions focus on banning soda, energy drinks, and candy.
- The USDA has issued waivers for 18 states to implement similar changes.
- Each state has discretion in defining restricted items.
- Iowa is limiting SNAP purchases to non-taxable food items starting in January.
- Critics argue that these rules unfairly target low-income populations.
FAQ
What are the new SNAP restrictions about?
The new restrictions aim to ban the purchase of sugary drinks and candy using SNAP benefits.
Which states are implementing these changes?
Oklahoma, Idaho, and Louisiana are currently rolling out these new restrictions, with additional states following soon.
When do these restrictions take effect?
The changes began on Sunday in Idaho and Oklahoma, while Louisiana’s will start on Wednesday.
What items are restricted under the new SNAP rules?
Items banned include soda, energy drinks, and all types of candy.
