Indiana Bans Soft Drinks and Candy from Food Stamp Program
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Indiana has officially banned the purchase of soft drinks and candy using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The decision, announced by Brooke Rollins, secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, aims to refocus SNAP on healthier food options.
Indiana Governor Mike Braun emphasized that sugary drinks and candy accounted for more taxpayer-funded SNAP spending than fruits and vegetables. "Indiana is proud to lead the way in the Make America Healthy Again agenda," he stated, highlighting the move as a significant step towards ensuring that SNAP fulfills its original purpose of promoting nutrition.
This policy change follows an executive order signed by Braun in April, which aimed to eliminate the purchase of unhealthy food items with SNAP benefits. Alongside this order, the governor enacted eight additional measures to promote a healthier lifestyle in the state.
This initiative positions Indiana among the first states to implement such a ban, reflecting a growing trend to encourage healthier eating habits among low-income families. The decision has garnered attention as part of broader discussions on food assistance programs and their role in public health.
For more updates on this evolving topic and its impacts on local communities, stay tuned to WDRB.
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