SNAP food restriction waivers


SNAP food restriction waivers allow US states to restrict what can be purchased with SNAP benefits. In April 2025 the Trump administration encouraged governors to request waivers to limit the purchases of soda and processed food using SNAP benefits. Without states requesting waivers, such a restriction would need Congress.

Response

Anti-hunger advocates say research proves SNAP users buy no more soda or junk food than other poor Americans, and that banning those items takes away dignity from people getting just $6 a day.
Trade associations representing grocery retailers and beverage manufacturers contend that such bans would be difficult and expensive to implement at the point of sale, and that they unfairly target soft drinks as a primary cause of obesity.

States

The following states have received waivers:
  • Texas approved 4 August, 2025.
  • Oklahoma requested in July 2025 and approved 4 August, 2025.
  • Louisiana announced in May 2025 and approved 4 August, 2025.
  • Colorado announced in May 2025 and approved 4 August, 2025.
  • Florida approved 4 August, 2025.
  • West Virginia approved 4 August, 2025.
  • Arkansas requested in April 2025 and approved in June 2025.
  • Idaho approved in June 2025.
  • Indiana approved in May 2025.
  • Iowa approved in May 2025.
  • Nebraska approved in May 2025, first to receive a waiver.
  • Utah approved in June 2025.
States that have yet to receive waivers: