South Dakota lawmakers are recommending the Rhoden administration to seek a federal waiver blocking the use of SNAP benefits to buy soft drinks, despite Gov. Larry Rhoden’s objections over state enforcement costs.
HB 1056 passed the Senate 27–6 and now heads to Rhoden, who agrees sugary drinks shouldn’t be eligible for SNAP but argues Congress—not states—should make the change. He declined to say whether he’ll veto the bill, calling the state‑by‑state waiver approach a sign of federal dysfunction.
Republican leaders defended the bill, saying it’s a reasonable step toward better long‑term health outcomes, even if it doesn’t include broader restrictions. They acknowledged the governor’s cost concerns but said the benefits outweigh them.
Rhoden, said he’ll review the bill once it reaches his desk.
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