SNAP benefits no longer cover candy, sweetened drinks through Texas Lone Star Card

AUSTIN (KVIA) -- The Texas Health and Human Services Commission said Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients can no longer buy candy or sweetened drinks with Lone Star Cards in Texas starting Wednesday.

New restrictions prohibit SNAP benefits from covering candy, gum or sweetened drinks made with water containing 5 or more grams of added sugar or any artificial sweetener. Restrictions apply to fruit, raisins and nuts that are candied, glazed, or coated with chocolate and yogurt, the HHS said.

The restrictions come after Texas Governor Greg Abbott sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service asking to prohibit SNAP benefits from overing sweetened drinks and candy. After the 89th Texas Legislature, Gov. Abbott signed Senate Bill 379 into law, which outlined new SNAP purchase restrictions.

“Texas will ensure the health and well-being of Texans by directing taxpayer dollars to food with real nutritional value,” said Gov. Abbott. “By restricting unhealthy food purchases using SNAP benefits, we are laying the foundation for a stronger, healthier Texas.”