Are your SNAP benefits about to change? New legislation could impact what you can buy
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A new bill in Idaho is raising concerns for thousands of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients.
If passed, it could restrict purchases of certain foods, sparking a nationwide conversation about government influence over nutrition choices.
Here’s what you need to know about the potential changes and how they could affect you.
The bill narrowly passed with a 38-32 vote, with opposition from all nine House Democrats and 23 Republican lawmakers.
It now moves to the Idaho Senate, where further debate will determine if it becomes law.
If approved, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare will need to request a federal waiver to implement the restrictions.
Currently, no state in the US has a waiver that restricts SNAP purchases based on nutritional value.
During the pandemic, waivers were used to expand SNAP access, but this bill seeks to do the opposite.
However, items that contain more than 10% flour or require refrigeration would be exempt.
Soda, which is already widely criticized for its sugar content, would also be banned from SNAP purchases under this legislation.
Supporters of the bill argue that taxpayer dollars shouldn’t fund junk food purchases.
Idaho State Representative Jordan Redman, one of the bill’s sponsors, called it "a step in the right direction to help people in need get more nutritious foods which will in turn lead to better health outcomes."
Read also: The USDA’s latest move—how it could shake up your food habits and grocery list
At the federal level, US Representative Josh Brecheen introduced the Healthy SNAP Act in January 2025.
This bill seeks to make soft drinks, candy, ice cream, and prepared desserts ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all 50 states.
Brecheen defended the proposal by saying: "If someone wants to buy junk food on their own dime, that's up to them. But what we're saying is, don’t ask the taxpayer to pay for it and then also expect the taxpayer to pick up the tab for the resulting health consequences."
Valerie Imbruce, director of the Center for Environment and Society at Washington College, pointed out the inconsistencies in the bill.
She stated: "Sugar is found in nearly every aisle of the grocery store. Not just in soda and candy. A flavored yogurt can contain 20 grams of sugar—more than a candy bar.
The same is true for granola bars and even pasta sauces. Why target soda and candy while leaving these items unquestioned?"
Read also: The truth behind why junk food is more affordable than healthy food–Is it worth the extra expense?
If the bill passes, Idaho will need federal approval before it can legally enforce these restrictions.
No official timeline has been announced for when the Senate will vote.
Meanwhile, at the federal level, debates around restricting SNAP purchases continue to gain traction.
If the Healthy SNAP Act moves forward, it could change how millions of Americans use their benefits.
Here’s what you can do:
Have you or your family been affected by changes to SNAP? Do you think the government should limit what people can buy with food assistance? Join the discussion in the comments below and let us know your thoughts.
Related article: Are you at risk? How obesity measurements could be misleading your health!
If passed, it could restrict purchases of certain foods, sparking a nationwide conversation about government influence over nutrition choices.
Here’s what you need to know about the potential changes and how they could affect you.
Idaho lawmakers push for stricter SNAP rules
Idaho’s House of Representatives recently passed House Bill 109, a proposal that would ban SNAP recipients from using their benefits to buy candy and soda.The bill narrowly passed with a 38-32 vote, with opposition from all nine House Democrats and 23 Republican lawmakers.
It now moves to the Idaho Senate, where further debate will determine if it becomes law.
If approved, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare will need to request a federal waiver to implement the restrictions.
Currently, no state in the US has a waiver that restricts SNAP purchases based on nutritional value.
During the pandemic, waivers were used to expand SNAP access, but this bill seeks to do the opposite.
What food restrictions would House Bill 109 create?
The bill redefines candy as any product made with sugar, honey, or artificial sweeteners combined with chocolate, fruit, nuts, or flavorings.However, items that contain more than 10% flour or require refrigeration would be exempt.
Soda, which is already widely criticized for its sugar content, would also be banned from SNAP purchases under this legislation.
Supporters of the bill argue that taxpayer dollars shouldn’t fund junk food purchases.
Idaho State Representative Jordan Redman, one of the bill’s sponsors, called it "a step in the right direction to help people in need get more nutritious foods which will in turn lead to better health outcomes."
Read also: The USDA’s latest move—how it could shake up your food habits and grocery list
A growing push for nationwide SNAP restrictions
The debate over SNAP benefits isn’t just happening in Idaho.At the federal level, US Representative Josh Brecheen introduced the Healthy SNAP Act in January 2025.
This bill seeks to make soft drinks, candy, ice cream, and prepared desserts ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all 50 states.
Brecheen defended the proposal by saying: "If someone wants to buy junk food on their own dime, that's up to them. But what we're saying is, don’t ask the taxpayer to pay for it and then also expect the taxpayer to pick up the tab for the resulting health consequences."
The controversy over banning junk food from SNAP
Critics of the bill argue that it singles out specific foods while ignoring the larger issue of hidden sugar content in many grocery items.Valerie Imbruce, director of the Center for Environment and Society at Washington College, pointed out the inconsistencies in the bill.
She stated: "Sugar is found in nearly every aisle of the grocery store. Not just in soda and candy. A flavored yogurt can contain 20 grams of sugar—more than a candy bar.
The same is true for granola bars and even pasta sauces. Why target soda and candy while leaving these items unquestioned?"
Read also: The truth behind why junk food is more affordable than healthy food–Is it worth the extra expense?
What happens next?
The Idaho Senate will now consider House Bill 109, which could affect the 130,900 Idaho residents who rely on SNAP benefits.If the bill passes, Idaho will need federal approval before it can legally enforce these restrictions.
No official timeline has been announced for when the Senate will vote.
Meanwhile, at the federal level, debates around restricting SNAP purchases continue to gain traction.
If the Healthy SNAP Act moves forward, it could change how millions of Americans use their benefits.
Stay informed and take action
If you or someone you know receives SNAP benefits, this is the time to stay informed.Here’s what you can do:
- Track the bill’s progress in the Idaho Senate and follow national discussions on SNAP reform.
- Voice your opinion by reaching out to local representatives and sharing your concerns.
- Stay engaged in the conversation about food security, nutrition, and government policy.
Related article: Are you at risk? How obesity measurements could be misleading your health!
