Judge Blocks SNAP Candy and Soda Ban in 20-Plus States
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 23
Judge Blocks SNAP Candy and Soda Ban in 20-Plus States
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jun 23
Summary
A federal judge on Monday halted the Trump administration’s effort to stop SNAP recipients from using benefits for sugary drinks, candy and other desserts.
In a 68-page ruling, Judge Amy Berman Jackson said the Agriculture Department lacked authority to approve the waivers and failed to follow required notice procedures.
More than 20 states had received waivers since last year, and recipients in five states sued in March, saying the restrictions were unlawful, confusing and harmful for people managing conditions such as diabetes.
The ruling rolls back a policy promoted as a Make America Healthy Again win, while advocates said it restores essential food assistance to millions of SNAP households nationwide.