Iowa SNAP Rules Reversed by Judge | Des Moines News

Iowa SNAP users can once again buy soda and candy thanks to a federal judge overturning state restrictions — a move that restores eligibility to any item deemed “food” by federal standards, excluding alcohol, tobacco, and ready-to-eat hot food. The USDA is now directing retailers to update systems, reversing changes made earlier this year under a controversial state waiver aimed at promoting healthier eating. While the governor supported the restrictions to combat obesity, many beneficiaries found the rules confusing and burdensome. The judge ruled the USDA failed to follow proper procedures in approving the waiver. Importantly, Iowa’s Summer EBT program (SUN Bucks) remains unaffected — its rules stay unchanged. A state law passed this year also keeps Iowa from joining future Summer EBT programs unless it secures a new federal waiver. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1fca647f274438ae