Mississippi Governor Seeks SNAP Sugar Purchase Ban

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves announced a request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a waiver that would bar SNAP purchases of processed foods and drinks that list sugar, cane sugar, corn syrup or high‑fructose corn syrup among the first two ingredients, while allowing single‑ingredient sugars for cooking, beverages sweetened with non‑caloric sweeteners, and hot prepared chicken (e.g., rotisserie). Reeves called the measure 'common sense,' saying taxpayer money should buy 'true necessities,' and the state said the restriction would take effect if approved, targeted for January 2027; similar waivers were approved in 12 states under the previous administration. The announcement arrives as a federal government shutdown threatens to pause SNAP benefits nationwide on Nov. 1, leaving roughly 357,000 Mississippi households at risk, and the state has not committed to using its own funds to cover a gap. Federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island have ordered emergency funds to continue SNAP in their states, and several governors have pledged state support, while Mississippi’s Legislative Black Caucus is urging Reeves to declare an emergency or call a special session to protect recipients. Public health leaders and advocacy groups have raised concerns about the timing, logistical challenges and potential impacts of restricting eligible food items amid the immediate disruption of benefits.