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Restrictions on Texans buying candy and sugary drinks using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits were approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) following a waiver request from Gov. Greg Abbott made earlier this year.
Beginning on April 1, 2026, SNAP recipients will not be allowed to use benefits to purchase candy, drinks containing artificial sweeteners, or drinks containing five grams or more of added sugar. Texas joins 11 other states that the federal government approved waivers for, enabling them to restrict what kinds of food can be purchased using SNAP benefits.
SNAP is administered in the state by the Texas Health and Human Servi