Idaho Seeks Federal Approval to Restrict Junk Food Purchases with SNAP Benefits
- Idaho submitted a formal waiver request on May 16, 2025, seeking federal approval to restrict SNAP purchases of soda and candy under House Bill 109.
- In April, Governor Brad Little issued a directive prompting Idaho to seek federal approval to restrict SNAP benefits from being used to buy junk food, joining states such as Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas in pursuing similar limitations.
- Officials leading Idaho's Self-Reliance program are seeking to adjust SNAP benefit guidelines to better reflect fundamental nutrition principles, with the goal of lowering chronic health problems and promoting healthier lifestyle choices.
- Governor Little emphasized that his team is dedicated to obtaining the required waiver promptly to enhance the well-being and health of Idaho residents.
- If approved, Idaho will join a small group of states attempting to use federal waivers to promote healthier food choices among SNAP recipients, potentially influencing similar nationwide policies.
30 Articles
30 Articles

Idaho asks federal gov to ban candy, soda purchases with SNAP
Idaho's health department on Friday officially sent its request to the federal government to prohibit candy and soda purchase with SNAP food benefits.
Idaho seeks Federal approval to restrict junk food purchases with SNAP benefits
BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — On Friday, Governor Brad Little and the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare submitted a formal request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for approval to restrict the purchase of junk food using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, commonly known as food stamps. The move comes after Gov. Little signed House Bill 109 into law in April. According to the USDA, approximately 20% of SNAP purcha…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 75% of the sources are Center
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
Ownership
To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage