CHARLESTON (WV News) — The West Virginia Department of Human Services will seek public input next year on its move to ban the purchase of soft drinks using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.

The ban is set to take effect Jan. 1. After that date, the department plans to conduct a statewide survey to collect public comments and feedback regarding the change, according to a news release.

The state formally received a federal waiver Monday allowing it to implement the restriction.

“The approval of West Virginia’s SNAP Healthy Choices Waiver reflects our commitment to prioritizing health outcomes and responsible stewardship of public resources,” said DoHS Secretary Alex Mayer. “This waiver allows us to better align nutritional assistance with our state’s efforts to combat ob

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