DeSantis seeks to limit EBT, TANF purchases to essential needs

The Brief

• Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Florida is working with the Trump administration to restrict public assistance benefit purchases.

• Proposed limits would block EBT and TANF funds from buying non-essentials like tobacco, adult material and theme park tickets.

• DeSantis says the policy aims to curb fraud without reducing overall monthly benefit amounts for eligible families.

TAMPA, Fla. – Gov. Ron DeSantis said Monday that Florida is working with the Trump administration on a plan to restrict the use of certain public assistance benefits, arguing taxpayer-funded aid should only be used for essential needs.

Florida public assistance restrictions

What we know

DeSantis said the proposed changes would apply to EBT and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits. The reform intends to reduce fraud while helping families eventually become self-sufficient.

Under the proposal discussed Monday, public assistance benefits would not be permitted to be used for certain products and services, including:

• Tobacco and vaping products

• Theme park and entertainment tickets

DeSantis said the goal is to ensure EBT and TANF benefits are used for necessities such as groceries, clothing and medicine. Additionally, the proposal would not reduce the amount of assistance eligible families receive.

The proposal comes as Florida and other states continue to debate restrictions on how federal food assistance can be used. A federal judge in June blocked the Trump administration from restricting SNAP recipients from buying candy, soda and other sugary drinks, ruling that federal law already defines what foods can be purchased with SNAP benefits. The ruling impacted restrictions that were already in place or scheduled to take effect in 23 states.

EBT fraud prevention measures

Dig deeper

DeSantis also discussed what he described as abuse of the public assistance system, saying scammers are using EBT benefits to commit fraud.

The governor said restricting purchases would ultimately save taxpayer money while ensuring people who qualify for assistance receive the help they need.

Community assistance and self-sufficiency

Big picture view

DeSantis said churches and the state’s CARE Portal could help connect families receiving assistance with resources intended to help them become self-sufficient.

The governor said the ultimate objective is not simply to regulate how benefits are spent, but to help families reach a point of self-sufficiency where they no longer need EBT or TANF assistance.

Federal approval timeline

What’s next

DeSantis said his administration is working with the Trump administration on the proposed changes and welcomed federal support for the effort.

A formal request to the Trump administration is expected soon, according to the governor.

The state must first amend its plan before a specific timeline for implementation can be established.

DeSantis said he anticipates the proposal will move forward.

The Source

The information in this story was gathered from official statements, policy announcements, and press briefing details provided by Gov. Ron DeSantis.