Last week, six more states were allowed to stop people from using their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to buy junk food like soda and candy.
This change is part of a new plan called “Make America Healthy Again,” led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins signed the permission slips, called waivers, during an event at the Great American Farmers Market.
Kennedy said, “For years, SNAP has used taxpayer money to pay for soda and candy—things that cause health problems like diabetes. These waivers help states focus on real, healthy food. I thank the governors who asked for these waivers and hope more will do the same. This is how we Make America Healthy Again.”
The states that got these waivers this time are West Virginia, Florida, Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. Starting in 2026, these states can stop SNAP benefits from being used to buy junk food.
Other states that already have waivers include Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, and Utah.
Each state has its own rules. For example, Arkansas limits buying fruit and vegetable juices that have less than 50% real juice. Louisiana and Nebraska do not allow SNAP money to be used for energy drinks.
Tennessee’s Governor Bill Lee is also asking for permission to make changes to SNAP.
Brooke Rollins said, “It’s great to see so many states taking action to fight health problems. The USDA will keep helping Americans who need it. These waivers just make sure families have healthier food options.”
The food stamp program started in 1939. In 1964, a law was passed to control food stamps, and the original idea was to ban buying soft drinks, alcohol, and luxury foods with food stamps. But that ban didn’t happen.
Now, all 50 states have rules that don’t allow food stamps to be used for alcohol, tobacco, live animals, or non-food items.
The SNAP program is paid for by the federal government. In 2023, it spent $115 billion on SNAP benefits.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott said, “This waiver will make sure taxpayer money is spent on foods that help keep Texans healthy.”
