Gov. McMaster aims to restrict SNAP purchases in South Carolina
Share and Follow


COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – Governor Henry McMaster said he plans to put a limit on what people who have SNAP benefits can and can’t buy.

The governor made a post on X Wednesday afternoon that said, “America is getting healthy, and South Carolina will do her part. In the next few days, I will issue an executive order directing the department of social services to place common-sense limits on purchases made using SNAP benefits, formerly known as ‘food stamps.'”

McMaster does not go into the specifics, but the U.S. Department of Agriculture said there are 12 states, including Florida and Texas, that have had Food Restriction Waivers approved.

The waivers restrict the purchase of non-nutritious items such as soda and candy. For example in Florida, you will not be allowed to purchase soda, energy drinks, candy, and prepared desserts.

Not all citizens want South Carolina to restrict purchases for people with SNAP benefits.

“People on SNAP want to eat healthy. Unfortunately, SNAP dollars and the resources that SNAP beneficiaries have don’t always go the full month, or allow them to purchase what are often more expensive items,” said Sue Berkowitz from S.C. Appleseed Legal Justice Center.

The Governor did not give specifics, however a dietician said it’s important for your mental health to have a balanced diet.

“If you set them up in a way that it becomes a habit, they can displace the other healthy foods. But then again, not to be able to have birthday cake at a birthday party or to just go out and have a nice, you know, dish of ice cream, life wouldn’t be quite as fun,” said Debora Milne, Clinical Outpatient Dietitian Bon Secours.

Berkowitz said if the governor follows what other states are doing, it will hurt South Carolinians.

“When you have, less resources, you’re having to figure out how to cobble things together,” Berkowitz said. “People are living with as much dignity as they possibly can and are doing the best they can with their lives.”

His office said the executive order will be issued in the coming days.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Airports Reject Kristi Noem’s Controversial Shutdown Video Blaming Democrats

A number of airports nationwide have declined to air a video featuring…

Breaking News: Fourth Suspect in DJ Fields’ Murder Case Admits Guilt in Court

In Beaufort County, South Carolina, a significant development has unfolded in the…

Shocking Discovery: Human Skull Found in Springfield Creek Sparks Intense Investigation

In Springfield, Illinois, a human skull discovered in a local creek has…

India Boosts US Oil and Gas Imports Amid Trump’s Push to Curb Russian Energy Deals

NEW DELHI – As part of its strategy to diversify energy sources,…

Will Collins Shake Up the Political Arena with a Gubernatorial Bid? Insights on Her Senate Legacy

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – The state senate seat once held by Lt.…

Four Local Volleyball Teams Triumph in State Playoff Opener

SAVANNAH, Ga. — On October 15, the volleyball teams from Calvary Day,…

Florida Teen Faces Charges After Self-Inflicted Gunshot in Fake Kidnapping Incident, Authorities Reveal

A 17-year-old from Dunnellon, Florida, found himself in hot water after allegedly…

Democratic Governors Unite: New Public Health Alliance Challenges Trump Policies

In a bold move to enhance collaboration on public health initiatives, a…