A major change for Texas families receiving food stamps takes effect on Wednesday, April 1. Families using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will now be banned from purchasing certain items.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the change in August 2025, stating that the action would help restrict the purchase of “unhealthy foods from being purchased.” He stated, “The new SNAP guidelines will ensure taxpayer dollars are used to purchase foods that provide real nutritional value.”

SNAP benefits are typically eligible for people in low-income households, according to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Also eligible for SNAP are households in which all members are either older adults (age 60 and older). 

SNAP food benefits are put on a Lone Star Card and can be used like a debit card at any store that accepts SNAP.