New Restrictions For South Carolina SNAP Recipients

The restrictions apply to all SNAP-authorized retailers in South Carolina. Recipients cannot opt out of the changes.

New restrictions have officially taken effect for South Carolina SNAP recipients.

The changes are part of the state’s Healthy Food SC initiative, which removes candy, energy drinks, soft drinks, and other sweetened beverages from the list of items eligible for purchase through SNAP.

Recipients can still purchase these items, but they must pay for them using money outside their SNAP benefits. Gov. Henry McMaster said the goal of the restrictions is to encourage healthier food choices.

Despite the new restrictions, some products still qualify under SNAP benefits. That includes bakery products, diet and zero-sugar soft drinks, granola and protein bars, and others.

The restrictions apply to all SNAP-authorized retailers in South Carolina. Recipients cannot opt out of the changes.

The new rules do not change who qualifies for SNAP assistance or the amount of benefits recipients receive.