local
Why SNAP soda and candy bans are controversial
By Tara Suter and The Hill at KTSM 9 News (NBC)
· June 24, 2026
· 1 min read
A federal judge on Monday blocked bans by the Trump administration and several states on the use of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to buy soda, candy and other foods considered unhealthy.
Why this matters in The El Paso
The federal judge's decision to block bans on using SNAP to buy soda, candy, and other unhealthy foods has significant implications for El Paso 's low-income communities. Many El Paso residents rely on SNAP to access basic necessities, and restricting food choices could exacerbate existing health disparities. El Paso County has struggled with high rates of obesity and diabetes, and some argue that limiting SNAP purchases to healthier options could help mitigate these issues. However, others contend that such restrictions would unfairly burden those who already struggle to make ends meet, and that education and access to healthy food options are more effective solutions. As the debate continues, El Pasoans will be watching to see how local food banks, community organizations, and government agencies respond to the ruling and its potential impact on the city's most vulnerable populations. Local leaders may need to reassess their approaches to addressing food insecurity and public health.
About this story
Original reporting by KTSM 9 News (NBC) . The El Paso 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 KTSM 9 News (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: KTSM 9 News (NBC) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? A federal judge on Monday blocked bans by the Trump administration and several states on the use of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to buy soda, candy and other foods considered unhealthy.
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by KTSM 9 News (NBC) and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Tara Suter and The Hill at KTSM 9 News (NBC). To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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