Summary
President Trump’s administration has proposed making weight-loss drugs cheaper and restricting the purchase of soda and candy with SNAP benefits. The goal is to tackle obesity by providing affordable medication and limiting unhealthy food choices for SNAP users. Some states are moving to ban sugary beverages for SNAP recipients, while there's a push to reduce drug prices under Medicare.
Key Facts
- Weight-loss drugs could cost as low as $149 a month for some doses under President Trump's proposal.
- States may ban soda and candy purchases under SNAP, with Nebraska's restrictions starting January 1, 2026.
- Medicare patients could have copays of about $50 for qualifying weight-loss medications.
- Critics argue that banning SNAP items might affect program dignity and user autonomy.
- Twelve states plan to implement SNAP restrictions by 2026, including Texas and Florida.
- The USDA now has a public page for SNAP Food Restriction Waivers, indicating a shift in policy.
- SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase medicine, and cheaper drug prices aim to reshape healthcare costs.
- The average monthly SNAP benefit is $190.59, which is more than the potential cost of some proposed medications.
