Montana Governor Greg Gianforte has submitted a request to the federal government aiming to restrict certain food purchases through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This proposal targets items such as “soft drinks, junk food, and candy.”
This waiver is rooted in initiatives from the Trump Administration, which sought to “Make America Healthy Again,” a movement also supported by Robert Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
If granted, Montana would follow in the footsteps of over 20 other states that are either in the process of or have already banned soft drinks and candy from SNAP benefits.
Montana’s waiver request is designed not to affect fresh-baked goods that are eligible for SNAP funding—often known colloquially as “food stamps”—as stated in a press release from the Governor’s Office.
In a letter directed to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, Gianforte explained that the waiver aims to decrease the consumption of high-sodium foods while promoting higher intake of fruits and vegetables. There is growing concern regarding federal budget cuts to programs supporting access to certain fresh produce, particularly through farmers markets.
The governor’s office did not disclose the specific language of the Montana waiver but indicated it would categorize restricted items and provide a standardized definition for candy and prepared desserts. Items like protein bars and fresh baked goods would remain accessible.
According to the release, the waiver also focuses on beverages that contain more than 10 grams of sugar per 8-ounce serving, along with energy drinks.
An Oklahoma SNAP waiver with similar restrictions specifies that candy does not include items such as baked goods like cakes, cookies, and pastries that usually fall under Cottage Food Laws or Food Freedom Laws; these products are often recognized and marketed primarily as bakery or bread items, regardless of their sweetener content.
Moreover, the Oklahoma waiver clarifies that soft drinks do not encompass coffee, unsweetened tea, 100% fruit or vegetable juice, and milk.
Critics in various states have compared these proposals to penalizing low-income individuals, arguing that they should have similar purchasing rights as those not reliant on SNAP. Concerns have also been raised about potential costs for retailers and the challenges in enforcement.
During the 2025 legislative session, Montana attempted to pass state legislation, notably Senate Bill 354 introduced by Sen. Daniel Zolnikov, R-Billings, which sought to prohibit the purchase of soft drinks and candy with SNAP benefits. This bill successfully passed the Senate but ultimately failed in a House Committee.
“This waiver is a crucial step in addressing the rising issue of diet-related chronic conditions within our state,” stated Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services Director Charlie Brereton in a release. “Aligning SNAP purchases with national dietary guidelines directly supports our goal of reducing sugary drink and candy consumption, both of which contribute to adverse health outcomes like obesity and Type 2 diabetes.”
In his letter, Gianforte noted that the obesity rate in Montana stands at 31%, and 32% of the population struggles with hypertension.
“We understand that a nutritious diet is essential for improved health outcomes,” the letter asserts. “By decreasing high-sodium foods and enhancing the availability of fresh produce, we can help Montanans lead happier, healthier lives. The items proposed for restriction are strongly linked to obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular issues.”
Key Takeaways
- Montana seeks to restrict SNAP purchases to include fewer unhealthy options.
- The waiver aims to reduce sugary drink and candy consumption.
- Over 20 states are already pursuing similar restrictions.
- Fresh baked goods and protein bars will remain eligible for purchase.
- Concerns have been raised about the financial implications for retailers.
- The program aims to align SNAP with national dietary guidelines.
FAQ
What does the waiver aim to restrict?
The waiver targets purchases of soft drinks, junk food, and candy through SNAP.
Will fresh baked products be affected?
No, fresh baked goods will continue to be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How does this align with health guidelines?
The goal is to reduce the consumption of unhealthy foods and promote the intake of fruits and vegetables in accordance with national dietary guidelines.
What are critics saying about these measures?
Some critics argue that such restrictions may unfairly penalize low-income individuals who rely on SNAP.
What’s the status of similar legislation in Montana?
A previous bill to ban soft drinks and candy under SNAP was passed by the Senate but failed in a House Committee.
The proposed waiver by Governor Gianforte represents a significant shift in how food assistance programs might be restructured, reflecting ongoing concerns about public health and dietary choices. Its future will depend on review and approval from federal authorities.
