The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has long been a lifeline for millions of low-income families across the United States. By helping households afford groceries, SNAP plays a critical role in reducing hunger and easing financial strain. However, the way people use their benefits is about to change in several states, with new restrictions that will affect millions of Americans.
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How SNAP Works
SNAP is a federally funded program but is managed at the state level. Benefits are issued to qualifying households through an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card, which functions much like a debit card. Families can then use these funds to purchase eligible groceries at participating retailers.
Eligibility for SNAP depends on income and household resources. Generally:
- Gross income must not exceed 130% of the federal poverty line.
- Net income must not exceed 100% of the federal poverty line.
- Countable household resources must be under $2,750.
- Able-bodied adults must work at least 20 hours weekly or join a job training program to continue receiving benefits for more than three months within a 36-month period.
While these guidelines are federal, states have some flexibility in setting requirements, making it essential for applicants to confirm their eligibility with their state’s SNAP office.
Eligible Purchases
SNAP benefits are meant to ensure access to nutritious food. According to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, beneficiaries can purchase:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants for growing food
Items such as alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, and household supplies are not eligible.
New Restrictions
Recently, eight states—Tennessee, South Carolina, West Virginia, Florida, Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas—have moved toward banning the purchase of sugary drinks and other junk foods with SNAP benefits. These states have submitted waivers to the USDA seeking approval to implement these changes.
In addition, twelve states, including Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and others, have already received approval to restrict purchases of sugary foods and drinks beginning in 2026.
This represents one of the largest shifts in SNAP policy in decades. Proponents argue the changes will help fight chronic health conditions such as obesity and diabetes. Critics, however, believe such restrictions unfairly target low-income households while ignoring the broader food system that makes processed foods cheap and widely available.
Impact on Families
The upcoming restrictions could significantly alter how families budget their benefits. For many, sugary drinks and snack foods have been affordable calorie sources, despite their lack of nutrition. Removing them from eligibility lists may force households to make different shopping choices—potentially leading to healthier eating but also creating challenges for those with limited access to fresh food options.
To balance these changes, states are expanding additional programs. For example, summer benefit programs like “Sun Bucks” are helping families offset higher food costs when children are out of school and unable to receive free or reduced meals. Such programs aim to reduce gaps caused by stricter SNAP purchasing rules.
Looking Ahead
The debate over SNAP continues to highlight larger issues within the U.S. food system. While states push for healthier choices among beneficiaries, food deserts, high grocery prices, and systemic health challenges remain barriers for many low-income families. The upcoming changes mark a turning point, but whether they lead to improved health outcomes—or simply new struggles—remains to be seen.
Millions of households depend on SNAP not just for food but also for stability. Staying informed about state-level changes is essential. For the latest updates and eligibility details, families should refer directly to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service and their state SNAP office.