Following direction from Idaho Gov. Brad Little, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare submitted a formal request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today seeking approval to implement House Bill 109, signed by Gov. Little in April.
Idaho is among just a few states to move quickly on submitting the waiver, a step that is required to implement the new law. House Bill 109 aims to promote healthier food choices by removing soft drinks and candy from the list of items eligible for purchase through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly referred to as food stamps.
“My administration is committed to securing the necessary waiver as quickly as possible so we can improve lives and Idahoans’ overall health,” Little said. “I appreciate the support of USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and the Idaho Legislature as we promote the MAHA movement in Idaho.”
Health and Welfare’s Division of Self-Reliance submitted the formal request.
“Idaho supports the health and well-being of families who rely on SNAP,” said Self-Reliance Division Administrator John Bernasconi. “By aligning SNAP benefits with basic nutrition standards, we hope to reduce preventable chronic health conditions and encourage healthier habits across the state.”
Once finalized, Idaho’s waiver request will ask the USDA to approve specific modifications to SNAP’s allowable food categories. If approved, SNAP benefits would no longer cover the purchase of soda, energy drinks, or candy. These changes reflect growing public health concerns over the role of added sugars and processed foods in contributing to conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
House Bill 109 received strong support in the 2025 legislative session and builds on a national conversation about the role of nutrition in federal food assistance programs. According to USDA data, a significant portion of SNAP purchases—approximately 20% nationally—are spent on sugary beverages and snacks.
“This effort is not about limiting choice—it's about encouraging better options for families and making sure public resources are supporting long-term health,” Bernasconi said.
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.