New Restrictions Could Impact How Texans Use SNAP Benefits

According to Fox News, Texas SNAP cardholders could face some serious changes when trying to purchase food. A bill is currently being discussed in the Texas legislature that would place restrictions on what people can buy with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Soft drinks, sweets such as candy, chips, cookies, and energy drinks are among the items that could be banned from SNAP purchases.

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Changes to SNAP Benefits Could Restrict Purchases for Texas Cardholders

SNAP benefits provide food assistance to low-income families to help supplement their grocery budgets and allow them to afford nutritious essentials for the health and well-being of their families. The government funds the SNAP program for Texans, and currently, candies, cakes, and most junk food—provided they are not hot meals—can be purchased with a SNAP card.

New Measures Could Restrict How Texas SNAP Recipients Spend Benefits

Republican State Senator Mayes Middleton stated that the U.S. Department of Agriculture defines the purpose of the SNAP program as providing nutritious food essentials for health and well-being. “Junk food certainly doesn’t fit that purpose,” Middleton said. He also argued that allowing these types of food and drink under the program goes against the entire purpose of SNAP.
Texans are left wondering how these changes will impact SNAP cardholders. Should Texans be allowed to purchase hot, cold, and junk food for their families, or should the program be restricted to healthier options?