SNAP

Some Texans on SNAP say the ban on using food stamps to buy sugary drinks and candy prevents quick fixes to low blood sugar conditions.

Texas has a 91% Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, accuracy rate — which could mean the state will be responsible for more than $700 million in benefits costs. If Texas has to cover part of the benefits costs, it would be the first time since the program started in the 1960s.

New restrictions on federal food stamp benefits include banning sweetened drinks and candy.

Starting April 1, Texans won't be able to use their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits to purchase "candy or sweetened drinks." Texas retailers and nonprofits have spent month preparing for the new restrictions — but some recipients may not know until they're checking out at the store.

Starting April 1, Texans will no longer be allowed to use food stamps to buy sweetened beverages and candy.

The Department of Homeland Security wants to eliminate guidelines around what public benefits can be considered in a "public charge" determination. Experts and advocates warn it could lead to a "chilling effect" in migrant communities.

The Dallas Zoo introduced the Zoo For All program in an effort to make the attraction more accessible for families in time for the holidays. The reduced price is nearly $110 off the original cost.

Under new requirements, “able-bodied” recipients could lose access to benefits for three years if they go three months without documenting working hours.

The federal funding package to reopen the government included a one-year extension of certain 2018 Farm Bill programs. Several expired Sept. 30 or would have been null by the end of the year.

Just as SNAP benefits were set to end, the Cash Saver grocery store at Singleton and Hampton closed its doors.

The high court's decision keeps in place a chaotic situation. People who depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in some states have received their full monthly allocations, while others have received nothing.

Combined Arms, a Houston-based nonprofit that works with 300 partner organizations nationwide, estimates food assistance requests are up nearly 50% over the past month, while rent or mortgage aid requests are up nearly a quarter.