Texans participating in a federal program that helps low-income individuals and families buy food will no longer be allowed to purchase sweetened drinks and candy, effective April 1, 2026, Gov. Greg Abbott announced this week.

Earlier this year, Abbott submitted a request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service, seeking a waiver to prohibit such purchases using SNAP — the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — benefits. On Tuesday, Abbott said the waiver had been approved.

SNAP serves millions across the state

SNAP serves about 3.5 million low-income Texans.

Those who qualify for SNAP receive a special card — similar to a debit card — to use at grocery stores for fruits, vegetables, meats, cereals, milk, plants, and garden seeds. The goal, according to f

See Full Page