La Governor Seeks Waiver to Restrict SNAP Purchases of Soda

By: D. D. Reese

Governor Jeff Landry has signed an executive order directing the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to seek a federal waiver to prohibit the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for purchasing soft drinks and candy. The move is part of the administration's "Make America Healthy Again" initiative aimed at promoting healthier dietary choices among low-income residents.

"If you want to consume these items, well that money should come out of your pocket," Landry stated in a social media post on May 1, 2025. "Why should we stand idly by while the least fortunate in our state are solicited to eat things that make them less healthy and vulnerable to chronic diseases?"

The executive order mandates that DCFS submit the waiver request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) by October 1, 2025. Should the waiver be granted, the state would implement the restrictions accordingly.

In addition to seeking the waiver, the order instructs DCFS to explore programs that incentivize the purchase of fruits and vegetables, such as the "Double Up Food Bucks" program, which offers matching funds for produce purchases.

Governor Landry also urged the state legislature to pass Senate Bill 14, sponsored by Senator Patrick McMath, which seeks to further restrict SNAP purchases of sugary beverages exceeding 5 grams of added sugar or containing artificial sweeteners. The bill includes exemptions for milk and milk substitutes.

Pros:
Public Health Promotion: Advocates argue that restricting SNAP purchases of sugary items could lead to improved health outcomes, reducing rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes among low-income populations.
Fiscal Responsibility: Supporters contend that taxpayer funds should not subsidize the purchase of items with low nutritional value, aligning public assistance with health objectives.

Cons:
Implementation Challenges: Critics highlight the complexity of defining and categorizing "unhealthy" foods, which could lead to confusion and administrative burdens.
Access Issues: There are concerns that such restrictions may disproportionately affect individuals in food deserts, where healthier options are limited, potentially reducing overall food access.

The USDA has historically been hesitant to approve waivers that restrict SNAP purchases, citing challenges in implementation and concerns about stigmatizing beneficiaries. Louisiana joins a list of states, including Arkansas and Indiana, that have sought similar waivers.

As the state awaits the USDA's decision, the debate continues over the balance between promoting public health and ensuring equitable access to food choices for all residents.