Florida has become the first U.S. state to block welfare cash assistance from being spent on items such as tattoos, vaping products, video games, theme parks and entertainment subscriptions. Announced by Governor Ron DeSantis on August 24, 2026, the new rules apply to Temporary Cash Assistance loaded onto EBT cards. Retailers must install software to prevent these purchases.
The restrictions do not reduce benefits, with eligible families continuing to receive an average of around $250 per month. Officials say the goal is to ensure taxpayer-funded assistance supports essential family needs rather than non-essential spending.
The Trump administration is also encouraging other states to introduce similar restrictions.
