Texas will become the first state to impose broad restrictions on what can be purchased with food assistance benefits when new rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program take effect April 1, state officials said Wednesday.
Under the change, about 3.3 million Texans who rely on SNAP benefits will no longer be able to use their Lone Star Cards to buy candy, gum or sweetened beverages. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission issued the reminder as part of a final effort to educate retailers and recipients ahead of the deadline.
The policy follows a waiver approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in August 2025. The move was championed by Gov. Greg Abbott and the Trump administration as a way to steer the program toward healthier food choices and improve long-term health outcomes.
The restrictions were authorized under Senate Bill 379, signed into law by the 89th Texas Legislature.
Under the law, SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase beverages containing 5 grams or more of added sugar or any amount of artificial sweetener. The rules also prohibit the purchase of certain “candied” snacks, including raisins or nuts that have been glazed, crystallized or coated in chocolate, yogurt or caramel.
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