SNAP Overhaul Ahead – Iconic Staple Foods May Be Banned After 60 Years Under New Law

On: Thursday, April 10, 2025 12:25 PM

SNAP Overhaul Ahead – Iconic Staple Foods May Be Banned After 60 Years Under New Law

For millions of US citizens, food stamps i.e. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) are like a lifeline, which helps them to meet their daily food needs. But now a big change is going to come in this system.

The state of Idaho has recently passed a bill that will prevent SNAP beneficiaries from buying things like candy and soda.

This move may affect the way SNAP is used, not only in Idaho but all over America. Let’s know all the information related to this bill, its impact, and future prospects.

What is Idaho House Bill 109?

House Bill 109, recently passed in the Idaho Assembly, is a proposal that has been brought to prevent SNAP beneficiaries from buying non-nutritious items like candy and soda.

Voting in the House: 48 for, 20 against
Voting in the Senate: 25 for, 10 against

Now it just needs Governor Brad Little’s approval and USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) approval.

What are the provisions of the bill?

The main purpose of the bill is not to allow SNAP beneficiaries to buy unhealthy and high-sugar items, such as:

Candy
Soda

In addition, the bill has also been amended to clarify the definition of “candy” so that the rules are easier to enforce.

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Why is USDA approval necessary?

SNAP is a federal program, meaning its rules are the same throughout the United States. Any state-level changes can only be implemented if the USDA approves it through a waiver.

Idaho plans to resubmit the proposal every year if it is not approved the first time until it is approved.

Why are the changes considered necessary?

About 7% of Idaho’s population (130,000 people) relies on SNAP.
Across the country, an average of 42.1 million people were taking advantage of SNAP every month in 2023.
SNAP currently does not allow the purchase of alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, supplements, and prepared hot food. All other food items, whether it is candy or ice cream, can be purchased.
But health experts and some leaders believe that this facility should be used only for nutritious and essential items.

🇺🇸 Healthy SNAP Act: A big step for the whole country

On the lines of Idaho, in January 2025, Representative Josh Brecheen introduced a bill called the Healthy SNAP Act. Under this federal law, purchases of the following items will be prohibited from SNAP:

Soft drinks
Candy
Ice cream
Prepared desserts

If this law is passed, these rules will be implemented for SNAP beneficiaries across the US.

Which states are in support of the change?

Idaho is not alone. At least 10 other states are also considering changes to SNAP rules:

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State	Status
Arizona	Under Consideration
Arkansas	Under Consideration
Iowa	Under Consideration
Missouri	Under Consideration
Montana	Under Consideration
Tennessee	Under Consideration
Texas	Under Consideration
Utah	Under Consideration
West Virginia	Under Consideration

These states are eyeing Idaho’s approval from the USDA. If approved, it could become a national trend.

What should you know?

So far, candy and soda can be purchased with SNAP.
If approved by the USDA, this rule can be implemented in Idaho on July 1, 2025.
Similar rules can be implemented in other states as well.
SNAP beneficiaries should keep getting updates from their local SNAP office or the USDA website.

Conclusion

Idaho’s move to restrict SNAP beneficiaries from purchasing candy and soda isn’t just a state decision—it could be the start of a national debate.
While some see it as a necessary health reform, others may see it as an infringement on the freedoms of the poor.