Nebraska will become the first state to ban soda and energy drinks from food stamp purchases. The USDA approved the state’s request to change its SNAP program, which helps low-income families buy groceries. About 152,000 people in Nebraska will be affected when the change starts on January 1.
Supporters of the ban say it’s meant to help families buy healthier foods. Governor Jim Pillen said there’s no reason taxpayer money should go toward drinks with no nutrition. Other states like Kansas and West Virginia are also asking for similar changes.
Some health and hunger experts disagree with the decision. They say restrictions like this make it harder for families to shop and can lead to more stigma. Many believe programs that reward healthy choices are better than rules that take away options. SNAP helps around 42 million people across the country.
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