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Ohio governor plans to ask the federal government for permission to ban the use of SNAP benefits for sugary drinks.

The proposal targets carbonated beverages where sugar or similar sweeteners are a primary ingredient.

Proponents argue the change would improve public health, while opponents cite concerns over personal choice and stigma.

If approved, Ohio would join several other states seeking similar restrictions on food assistance funds.

Gov. Mike DeWine plans to seek a federal waiver to prevent SNAP recipients from using their food assistance benefits to buy sugary drinks — a move that could impact more than 1 million people in the state.

The governor had vetoed a similar restriction in the state budget, citing overly broad language, but since has voiced suppo

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