Overview
- The USDA approved waivers for Hawaii, Missouri, North Dakota, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia, taking the total with purchase limits to 18 states.
- States will begin rolling out changes in 2026 on staggered timelines, with Missouri planning to start Oct. 1, 2026.
- The waivers redefine eligible items under SNAP, typically barring soda, energy drinks, candy and prepared desserts, though scope differs by state.
- The administration frames the policy as restoring SNAP’s nutrition focus through the Make America Healthy Again initiative.
- Anti-hunger advocates and local nonprofits caution the restrictions could burden families and stores, urging benefit boosts and better food access as the federal government offers incentives to participating states.