Federal Judge Blocks Ban on SNAP Benefits for Soda Purchases
A federal judge has blocked a ban on using SNAP benefits for purchasing soda, a restriction previously implemented by the Trump administration. The ruling indicates that Congress, not the agency, defines what constitutes food eligible for SNAP.
Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, June 22, 2026 —
A federal judge has issued a ruling that blocks a ban on the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for the purchase of soda. This restriction had been put in place by the Trump administration.
The judge’s decision asserts that the authority to define what constitutes eligible food items for SNAP rests with Congress, rather than the agency responsible for administering the program. The ban, implemented during the previous administration, had sought to limit the purchase of sugary beverages with federal food assistance funds.
The ruling centers on the interpretation of SNAP’s statutory framework and the respective roles of legislative and administrative bodies in defining program parameters. The implications of this decision may impact future administrative attempts to regulate food purchases within the SNAP program.
Story summarized from the original created by Tara Suter on thehill.com, see more information here.
Media gallery
