Gov. McMaster aims to restrict SNAP purchases in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – Governor Henry McMaster said he plans to put a limit on what people who have SNAP benefits can and can’t buy.

The governor made a post on X Wednesday afternoon that said, “America is getting healthy, and South Carolina will do her part. In the next few days, I will issue an executive order directing the department of social services to place common-sense limits on purchases made using SNAP benefits, formerly known as ‘food stamps.'”

McMaster does not go into the specifics, but the U.S. Department of Agriculture said there are 12 states, including Florida and Texas, that have had Food Restriction Waivers approved.

The waivers restrict the purchase of non-nutritious items such as soda and candy. For example in Florida, you will not be allowed to purchase soda, energy drinks, candy, and prepared desserts.

Not all citizens want South Carolina to restrict purchases for people with SNAP benefits.

“People on SNAP want to eat healthy. Unfortunately, SNAP dollars and the resources that SNAP beneficiaries have don’t always go the full month, or allow them to purchase what are often more expensive items,” said Sue Berkowitz from S.C. Appleseed Legal Justice Center.

The Governor did not give specifics, however a dietician said it’s important for your mental health to have a balanced diet.

“If you set them up in a way that it becomes a habit, they can displace the other healthy foods. But then again, not to be able to have birthday cake at a birthday party or to just go out and have a nice, you know, dish of ice cream, life wouldn’t be quite as fun,” said Debora Milne, Clinical Outpatient Dietitian Bon Secours.

Berkowitz said if the governor follows what other states are doing, it will hurt South Carolinians.

“When you have, less resources, you’re having to figure out how to cobble things together,” Berkowitz said. “People are living with as much dignity as they possibly can and are doing the best they can with their lives.”

His office said the executive order will be issued in the coming days.