LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) – Governor Mike DeWine is considering banning soda and sugary drinks from being purchased with SNAP benefits.
DeWine is seeking a federal waiver to prohibit people using the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program from buying beverages where sugar or sweeteners, such as corn syrup, are one of the top two ingredients. Several other states have enacted similar restrictions on the use of SNAP benefits for specific drinks. Supporters of the proposal say it could help improve public health.
The waiver request to restrict the purchase of soda and sugary drinks with SNAP benefits must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture by Oct. 28, though that deadline could be affected by the ongoing government shutdown.
