Judge Voids SNAP Soda and Candy Bans in 5 States Over USDA Waiver Approval
Updated
Updated · KETV Omaha · Jun 23
Judge Voids SNAP Soda and Candy Bans in 5 States Over USDA Waiver Approval
3 articles · Updated · KETV Omaha · Jun 23
Summary
A federal judge on Monday struck down USDA-approved SNAP food restrictions in Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah and West Virginia, blocking bans on purchases such as soda, candy and energy drinks.
The ruling said USDA exceeded its authority by using state waivers to narrow the federal definition of eligible food and also skipped required public notice before approving the plans.
The five states were the first of at least 18 pursuing such limits under a push by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to reshape the $100 billion program.
SNAP serves about 42 million Americans, and the judge said states may still pursue healthier-eating goals, though it was unclear Monday whether USDA or the states would appeal.