AUSTIN – Fresh restrictions on what can be purchased with SNAP benefits – commonly known as food stamps – took effect in Texas today, prohibiting the use of Lone Star Cards for candy, gum, and sweetened beverages. The changes, championed by Gov. Greg Abbott, aim to direct taxpayer dollars toward more nutritious food options for the state’s low-income residents. This shift impacts approximately 3.3 million Texans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for food assistance, according to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
The move comes after a lengthy process involving a request for a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and legislative action in Texas. Governor Abbott initially sent a letter to the USDA last year seeking permission to restrict purchases of sweetened drinks and candy with SNAP benefits. The 89th Texas Legislature then formalized these restrictions in Senate Bill 379, which Abbott signed into law. The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) approved the waiver in August 2023, paving the way for today’s implementation.
Specifically, the new rules prohibit SNAP benefits from being used to buy candy, gum, or sweetened drinks containing 5 grams or more of added sugar per serving, or any amount of artificial sweeteners. The restrictions extend to fruit, raisins, and nuts that have been candied, crystallized, glazed, or coated with chocolate, yogurt, or caramel. The HHSC provides a detailed list of prohibited items on its website, offering guidance to both SNAP recipients and retailers.
What’s Considered a “Sweetened Beverage”?
Defining a “sweetened beverage” has been a key point of clarification. According to the HHSC, the restrictions apply to beverages made with water that contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners. This includes many sodas, sweetened juices, and energy drinks. However, 100% fruit juice is still an allowable purchase. The rules also clarify that milk, even flavored milk, remains eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
The Rationale Behind the Restrictions
Governor Abbott framed the changes as a step toward improving the health and well-being of Texans. “Texas will ensure the health and well-being of Texans by directing taxpayer dollars to food with real nutritional value,” Abbott said in a statement. “By restricting unhealthy food purchases using SNAP benefits, we are laying the foundation for a stronger, healthier Texas.” Stephanie Muth, Executive Commissioner of the HHSC, echoed this sentiment, stating, “A nutritious diet is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. We hope these changes will support healthier food and drink choices for Texans and facilitate build stronger communities.”
The move aligns with a broader national conversation about the role of SNAP in promoting healthy eating. While SNAP is primarily intended to alleviate food insecurity, some advocates argue that the program should also incentivize healthier choices. However, critics raise concerns about potential limitations on food access for low-income individuals and the administrative burden of enforcing the restrictions.
How Will These Restrictions Be Enforced?
Enforcement of the new restrictions will primarily fall to retailers who accept SNAP benefits. Stores are responsible for ensuring that prohibited items are not purchased with SNAP funds. The HHSC will provide training and resources to retailers to help them comply with the new rules. Violations could result in penalties for retailers, including fines or suspension of their ability to accept SNAP benefits.
The HHSC is also offering resources for SNAP recipients to help them build informed food choices. The agency’s “Solid Food, Good Move” website, accessible here, provides tips on quick and affordable meals, as well as information on healthy eating habits. Texans can also learn more about SNAP and other programs by visiting the HHSC’s SNAP Food Benefits webpage or dialing 2-1-1.
Impact on SNAP Recipients and Retailers
The impact of these restrictions on SNAP recipients remains to be seen. Some advocates express concern that limiting food choices could disproportionately affect individuals with limited access to affordable, healthy options. Others argue that the changes will encourage recipients to prioritize more nutritious foods. Retailers, particularly smaller stores, may face challenges in adapting to the new rules and ensuring compliance.
The USDA estimates that approximately 41.2 million Americans participated in SNAP in December 2023, receiving an average benefit of $281.39 per person. In Texas, SNAP benefits can be used to purchase a wide range of foods, including fruits and vegetables, meats, cereals, dairy products, and plants and garden seeds. The program plays a critical role in addressing food insecurity in the state, particularly among vulnerable populations.
The HHSC will continue to monitor the implementation of the new restrictions and assess their impact on SNAP recipients and retailers. The agency plans to provide ongoing training and support to ensure a smooth transition. The next scheduled update from the HHSC regarding the SNAP purchase restrictions is expected in early 2025, when the agency will release a preliminary report on the program’s effectiveness.
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