WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved new waivers for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that will restrict the purchase of certain foods deemed unhealthy in Arkansas, Idaho, and Utah. These changes expand upon similar waivers previously granted to Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska.
The waivers, signed by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., amend the statutory definition of food items eligible for purchase under SNAP. Each state’s changes are scheduled to take effect in 2026.
In Arkansas, the waiver excludes soda, low- and no-calorie soda, fruit and vegetable drinks with less than 50% natural juice, other sugary beverages, and candy. The state’s restrictions are scheduled to begin July 1, 2026. Idaho’s waiver excludes soda and candy, effective January 1, 2026, while Utah’s waiver removes soft drinks from the list of eligible items, also effective January 1, 2026.
According to Secretary Rollins, the initiative aligns with the administration’s broader “Make America Healthy Again” strategy, which seeks to improve public health and reduce chronic disease rates. “America’s governors have proudly answered the call to innovate by improving nutrition programs, ensuring better choices while respecting the generosity of the American taxpayer,” Rollins said.
Secretary Kennedy also called on other states to follow suit, stating that public funds should not subsidize products contributing to chronic health conditions.
Governors from each state expressed support for the move. Idaho Governor Brad Little described the waiver as “common sense,” while Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders stated that the changes position Arkansas to lead in promoting healthier food choices. Indiana Governor Mike Braun, who joined the event, said the adjustments support nutrition goals and agricultural priorities in his state.
The waivers follow a broader USDA effort encouraging states to experiment with policy changes through what the Department refers to as “Laboratories of Innovation.” SNAP restrictions previously included only alcohol, tobacco, hot/prepared foods, and non-food items. These waivers mark a significant expansion of excluded categories.
For more information, visit www.usda.gov.