SNAP Benefit Rules Could Change For Thousands: What To Know
Summary
Some U.S. states are seeking to change what people can buy with food assistance benefits. South Dakota's legislature has voted to ban sugary drinks from being bought with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The proposal requires federal approval and may need more funding to implement.Key Facts
- South Dakota's House of Representatives voted 58-11 to ban sugary drinks from SNAP purchases.
- Governor Larry Rhoden’s office expressed concerns about the proposal's cost, which may require $500,000 annually for extra staff and a contractor.
- SNAP, known as food stamps, helps low-income households buy food, and it operates like a debit card system.
- States can request federal waivers to limit what can be bought with SNAP benefits.
- Many states, including Indiana and Iowa, have passed similar restrictions on buying junk food with SNAP.
- Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. support removing sugary products from SNAP.
- 18 states have already changed SNAP policies to exclude candy and soda.
- New Mexico is also considering a bill to restrict soda and candy purchases with SNAP benefits.
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