SNAP Soda Ban Blocked

U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson ruled that the Agriculture Department lacked authority to approve state waivers barring SNAP recipients from buying soda, candy and other sugary foods with benefits. The decision blocks restrictions in five states — Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee and West Virginia — and deals a setback to the Trump administration’s effort to tie food assistance rules to the Make America Healthy Again agenda. The case arose after beneficiaries challenged USDA-approved state plans, arguing the federal government could not narrow eligible purchases through waivers. The ruling leaves SNAP participants able to use benefits for the disputed items while the administration and states weigh next steps.