South Dakota senators passed House Bill 1056 on Wednesday which asks federal officials for permission to block SNAP beneficiaries from buying sweetened soft drinks with SNAP benefits.
Supporters say SNAP should be for food, not pop.
Critics claim the legislation might cause difficulties for small businesses.
Sen. Sydney Davis, a Republican from Burbank, says: taxpayers should not pay for soda through a nutrition program.
Opponents raised concerns about rural access.
Sen. Tamara Grove, a Republican from Lower Brule, said some retailers could decide it is too much work.
HB 1056 requires the waiver request by Sept. 1.
The bill now heads to the governor.
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