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3d ago

Nebraska Becomes First State to Ban Soda and Energy Drinks from SNAP

USDA approves Nebraska's two-year pilot program under 'Make America Healthy Again,' effective January 1, 2026.

FILE - Soft drink and soda bottles are on display in a refrigerator at El Ahorro market in San Francisco, Sept. 21, 2016. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File)
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Stock image/file photo: A person shopping in a grocery stores.

Overview

  • Nebraska received the first federal waiver to restrict soda and energy drinks from Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) purchases.
  • The policy, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, will impact approximately 152,000 SNAP participants in the state.
  • The waiver is part of the USDA's 'Make America Healthy Again' initiative, encouraging states to promote healthier food choices through SNAP reforms.
  • Critics argue the restrictions are paternalistic, increase administrative burdens, and fail to address the lack of affordable, healthy food options in low-income areas.
  • Idaho and six other states have submitted similar waiver requests, with Nebraska's pilot program serving as a potential model for future SNAP reforms.