SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — Claims circulating on social media that people in several states are now banned from buying candy or soda with food stamp benefits are misleading, according to federal policy.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as SNAP, currently allows the purchase of most foods and beverages, including candy and soft drinks, at authorized retailers. There is no nationwide ban in effect.

Federal officials have allowed a limited number of states to explore pilot programs that would restrict certain food purchases under SNAP, but those programs are optional, narrow in scope and not blanket bans. No federal rule requires states to prohibit candy or soda purchases, and no immediate restrictions are taking effect across multiple states.

States such as Louisiana, Texas, Florida, and Oklahoma have not implemented SNAP bans on candy or soda, and there is no confirmed timeline for widespread restrictions in 2026.

SNAP policy is administered at the federal level by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which must approve any state-level pilot changes before they can take effect.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com.

Read Full Story: https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiiAFBVV95cUxPNWtrZ0c5cFpJVWNUaGZGY08x...