SNAP Soda Ban Blocked

Judge blocks limits on using food stamps for soda and candy.

•Leans Right

USDA can’t ban soda, candy from SNAP benefits in 5 states, judge rules

Obama-Appointed Judge Overturns Trump Admin Health Rules, Says Food Stamps Can Be Used for Soda, Candy

Trump administration can't block SNAP recipients in 5 states from buying soda and candy, judge rules

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U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson ruled that the Agriculture Department lacked authority to approve state waivers barring SNAP recipients from buying soda, candy and other sugary foods with benefits. The decision blocks restrictions in five states — Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee and West Virginia — and deals a setback to the Trump administration’s effort to tie food assistance rules to the Make America Healthy Again agenda. The case arose after beneficiaries challenged USDA-approved state plans, arguing the federal government could not narrow eligible purchases through waivers. The ruling leaves SNAP participants able to use benefits for the disputed items while the administration and states weigh next steps.

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Trump administration allies and conservative commentators criticized Jackson’s ruling, casting it as judicial interference with a public-health push to curb obesity and ultraprocessed foods. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said SNAP should pay for “food — not sugar bombs,” while the White House signaled the decision would not be the final word.