local
Judge rules government can't stop SNAP dollars from buying candy and sugary drinks
By Geoff Mulvihill, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio
· June 23, 2026
· 4 min read
The federal government can't block benefits from the nation's largest food aid program from being used to buy candy, soda and other sugary drinks, a judge ruled.Monday's ruling scuttles restrictions now in place or planned for the federally funded and state-run Supplemental Nutrition Assistance P...
Key takeaway Monday's ruling scuttles restrictions now in place or planned for the federally funded and state-run Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in 23 states.
Why this matters in Terrell Hills News
In Terrell Hills , where many residents rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to make ends meet, this ruling has significant implications. The judge's decision to block restrictions on using SNAP benefits to buy candy and sugary drinks means that local families will continue to have the freedom to make their own choices about what to purchase with their benefits. This is particularly important in a community like Terrell Hills, where access to healthy food options can be limited in some areas. While the goals of promoting healthy eating habits are admirable, the restrictions would have disproportionately affected low-income households who may not have access to alternative options. As the situation moves forward, it will be important to watch how local officials and community organizations respond to the ruling and whether they will explore alternative ways to promote healthy eating habits among SNAP beneficiaries.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio . Terrell Hills News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The federal government can't block benefits from the nation's largest food aid program from being used to buy candy, soda and other sugary drinks, a judge ruled.Monday's ruling scuttles restrictions now in place or planned for the federally funded and state-run Supplemental Nutrition Assistance P...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 23, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio and curated for Terrell Hills News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Geoff Mulvihill, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio. To learn more about how Terrell Hills News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Terrell Hills News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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