SNAP Restrictions Coming Next Year to Texas

August 6, 2025 – Governor Greg Abbott has announced that Texas has received federal approval to implement new restrictions on the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Beginning April 1, 2026, SNAP recipients will no longer be allowed to use their benefits to purchase sweetened drinks, candy, or beverages containing five grams or more of added sugar or artificial sweeteners. The goal of this change is to improve the overall health of Texans by encouraging healthier eating habits and ensuring that taxpayer dollars support nutritious food choices.

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will oversee the implementation of the waiver and work with retailers to ensure proper enforcement. The program will continue to allow purchases of essential and nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, cereals, and even seeds and plants for home gardening.

Governor Abbott emphasized that the new guidelines are aimed at promoting better health outcomes and reducing preventable diet-related illnesses. The waiver, approved by the Trump administration, is part of a broader effort to strengthen families and communities by improving access to healthy food options.

SNAP currently supports approximately 3.5 million Texans, and these changes represent a significant shift in how benefits can be used going forward.