6 More States Just Imposed New SNAP Benefit Restrictions: Are You Impacted?

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Starting in 2026, Americans in six additional states will face new limits on what they can buy with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. On Dec. 10, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the approval of six new state waivers under the Make America Healthy Again initiative.

Here’s a look at what states are impacted and which foods are now off-limits.

States With New SNAP Restrictions in 2026

The six states that recently received approval for SNAP food-choice waivers are:

• Hawaii
• Missouri
• North Dakota
• South Carolina
• Virginia
• Tennessee

“With these new waivers, we are empowering states to lead, protecting our children from the dangers of highly-processed foods, and moving one step closer to the President’s promise to Make America Healthy Again,” Rollins said in a USDA press release.

Earlier this year, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska and Utah implemented similar waivers. That brings the total to 12 states restricting certain SNAP purchases.

What Foods Are Off-Limits?

The waivers apply to “food for purchase” items, and while the exact items vary from state to state, most now prohibit the use of SNAP benefits for the purchase of candy, soda and energy drinks.

Here’s a closer look at the new exclusions by state:

• Hawaii: Soft drinks
• Missouri: Candy, prepared desserts and certain beverages, including soft drinks and energy drinks
• North Dakota: Soft drinks, energy drinks and candy
• South Carolina: Candy, energy drinks, soft drinks and sweetened beverages
• Virginia: Sweetened beverages, including soft drinks and energy drinks
• Tennessee: Processed foods and beverages such as soda, energy drinks and candy

How To Prepare If You’re Affected

If you live in one of these six states, make a plan now before changes take effect in 2026.

• Check your state’s SNAP guidelines: Visit your state’s Department of Social Services or the USDA website for details.
• Plan your grocery list: Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, grains and proteins.
• Look for community resources: Local food banks and nutrition programs may help fill gaps.

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