States Push USDA for Waivers to Restrict SNAP Purchases of Soda and Candy

Arkansas, Indiana, and Idaho lead a growing effort under the 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda, with federal officials signaling support for fast-tracking these changes.

Arkansas has formally submitted a USDA waiver request to ban soda and candy from SNAP purchases, with Indiana and Idaho announcing similar plans.
Ohio lawmakers included a provision in the state budget requiring repeated waiver requests to restrict sugar-sweetened beverages if initial attempts are denied.
The proposed restrictions are part of the broader 'Make America Healthy Again' initiative, championed by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., aiming to reduce chronic disease and improve public health.
Indiana Governor Mike Braun has gone further, issuing executive orders to add work requirements and reinstate income and asset verification for SNAP participants.
Critics argue that these measures unfairly target low-income populations and lack evidence of improving health outcomes, while supporters emphasize the need for taxpayer funds to promote healthier choices.