Federal Court Strikes Down SNAP Restrictions in Many States

This is going to be a mess in many states. A federal judge strikes down many restrictions to the SNAP program that have been implemented in several states. The judge says the U.S. Department of Agriculture cannot allow states to put rules in place restricting what folks can buy with SNAP money.

What Has Been Banned from SNAP

Several states have made it illegal to use SNAP cash to buy candy and sugary drinks. But the court ruled that the USDA exceeded its legal authority by attempting to bypass Congress’s statutory definition of eligible food in an effort to promote healthier eating habits.

This legal challenge specifically targeted pilot programs in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee, and West Virginia, but several other states including Louisiana will likely be impacted by this decision.

READ MORE: Food Pantries in Shreveport Area

The Court notes that concerns about health and obesity are valid, the agency must go through the legislative process to change the list of approved foods.

What Will Happen in Louisiana

Louisiana bans the use of SNAP benefits for candy, sodas and energy drinks, but this ruling will likely change that ban. The Louisiana restrictions just went into effect on February 18 and this ruling makes those rules no longer enforceable.

What Happens Next with SNAP Changes?

No word yet on a possible appeal from the Trump administration. And unless a higher court steps in to pause Judge Jackson's order, Louisiana cannot reinstate these food limits.

Get our free mobile app

But the Louisiana Department of Health has issued a statement saying the state's ban on sugary drinks and candy will remain in place for now while they monitor federal legal developments. Because Louisiana was not a direct defendant in the lawsuit, the state is not automatically pulling its restrictions until the USDA officially revokes Louisiana's individual waiver. Here's what's on the Louisiana banned list.

Retailers Risk Financial Penalties

Retailers will have to wait on directives from the department of health before making a change to allow the sale of candy and sodas with SNAP benefits. National chains (like Walmart or Kroger) and local grocers will keep blocking these items until LDH sends a formal directive to change their systems.