Florida bill would ban use of food stamps to buy soda

A bill proposed in the Florida legislature would ban the use of food stamps to purchase certain soft drinks, such as soda.

The bill defines soft drinks as a flavored carbonate beverage that's sweetened with natural or artificial sweeteners.

Under current federal regulations, the following items are some of which are not allowed to be purchased using food stamps: Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes or tobacco; any nonfood items, such as pet foods, soaps, paper products, household supplies, vitamins and medicines.

Junk foods such as candy, cookies, ice cream and soft drinks, however, are currently alowed to be purchased using SNAP funds.