Nebraska Approved to Ban Soda Purchases with SNAP Benefits

Nebraska has become the first state to receive federal approval to ban the purchase of soda and energy drinks with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, a change set to take effect on January 1, 2026. Governor Jim Pillen, who requested the waiver, emphasized that taxpayer funds should support nutritious food rather than sugary drinks, a stance supported by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, who called it a historic step to improve public health. Six other states, including Arkansas, Colorado, and Iowa, have expressed interest in similar waivers that would restrict unhealthy food and drink purchases or expand access to healthy hot foods. Critics argue the ban may not improve nutrition for low-income families, highlighting concerns about stigma, administrative burdens, and insufficient SNAP benefits to afford healthier options. Advocates suggest incentive-based approaches to encourage nutritious choices rather than restrictive policies. The USDA has promoted states as 'laboratories of innovation' to pilot such changes, reflecting a broader effort to enhance SNAP's role in promoting healthier diets among participants.