KNOXVILLE, Tenn. ( WSMV /WVLT) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved waivers for 18 states that ban the use of SNAP benefits to buy certain sugary foods and drinks starting next year.

The USDA has been approving SNAP food-choice waivers since May, with Tennessee being approved on Wednesday.

“The Trump Administration’s leadership to create innovative, responsible solutions that strengthen families and improve health outcomes will have a lasting impact on Tennesseans for generations to come,” said Governor Bill Lee. “I’m grateful to President Trump, Secretary Rollins, and Secretary Kennedy for quickly approving our SNAP waiver, and to our retailers and food producers for helping ensure nutritious food choices reach every community across our state.”

Gov. Lee submitted the wa

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