RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Virginia families receiving SNAP benefits will face new restrictions on what they can purchase beginning in the new year, as the state moves to ban sweetened drinks from the program.

State leaders said the goal is to promote healthier eating and empower Virginians to lead healthier lives.

Some people agree with the message but are not entirely sure this is the way to do it.

Several states are banning certain junk food items from SNAP coverage, from things like candy to desserts. But in the commonwealth, officials are focused on sweetened drinks to help promote healthier eating.

“I think it’s a great thing to encourage of course you want healthier options for everybody,” said John Rebillot, a Virginia resident.

“It doesn’t seem like soda is apart of a healthy die

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