USDA approves Arkansas Gov. Sanders' waiver to ban soda, candy from SNAP
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — The United States Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins signed Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders' waiver May 10 to ban soft drinks and candy from Arkansas' Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
According to a press release from Sanders' office, the governor submitted her waiver in April. The state will use the GS1 US food categorization system to implement the policy changes.
USDA approves SNAP waivers for 3 states, where does Arkansas' stand?
'This approval sends a clear message: President Trump and his administration are tackling America's chronic disease epidemic and Arkansas stands with him in that fight,' said Sanders. 'I am incredibly grateful for Secretary Rollins' quick approval of our waiver. Arkansas leads the nation in getting unhealthy, ultra-processed foods off food stamps and helping our most vulnerable citizens lead healthier lives.'
Rollins signed similar waivers for Idaho and Utah, along with Arkansas, at an event where she was joined by Sanders and U.S. Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr., according to a press release from the USDA.
The waiver bans soda, low and no-calorie soda, fruit and vegetable drinks with less than 50% natural juice, 'other unhealthy drinks,' and candy from SNAP. The order takes effect July 1, 2026.
In May, Rollins approved waivers for Nebraska, Indiana and Iowa to remove sodas and sugary and unhealthy foods, the first three states to be approved.
Indiana and Arkansas were the first states to announce plans to ban soft drinks and candy from the program that helps low-income people pay for groceries.
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