Montana Approved to Restrict SNAP Purchases on Sugary Drinks, Candy, Junk Food

May 19, 2026

Montana will become the 23rd state in the nation to restrict certain purchases in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) after the U.S. Department of Agriculture approved the state’s waiver request.

Governor Greg Gianforte announced Tuesday that USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins signed off on Montana’s request to ban soft drinks, candy, junk food, and certain high-sugar beverages from SNAP purchases as part of the Trump Administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” initiative.

“Thanks to the strong leadership of President Donald J. Trump, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, and Secretary Rollins, we are taking bold steps to Make America Healthy Again,” Gianforte said. “Montana is proud to join 22 other states to ensure taxpayer dollars provide nutritious options that improve health outcomes for those who rely on these crucial programs.”

Secretary Rollins praised Montana’s move, saying the administration wants to return SNAP to its original nutritional focus.

“The Trump Administration is pleased that Governor Gianforte and Montana stepped up to incentivize healthier options for SNAP recipients,” Rollins said. “Bringing SNAP back to its core principle of nutrition is common sense and we hope to sign waivers for all 50 states soon.”

The approved waiver will restrict purchases of candy, prepared desserts such as packaged snack cakes, energy drinks, and sugary beverages containing more than 10 grams of sugar per eight ounces.

State officials said exemptions will remain for products such as milk, 100 percent fruit juice, medical electrolytes, protein bars, and fresh baked goods.

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services Director Charlie Brereton said the change is aimed at addressing chronic health concerns.

“This waiver is a critical step in addressing the growing concern of diet-related chronic conditions across our state,” Brereton said. “By aligning SNAP purchases with national dietary guidelines, we are directly supporting Montana’s goal to reduce the consumption of sugary drinks, candy, and other foods that contribute to adverse health outcomes, including obesity and Type 2 diabetes.”

According to state officials, SNAP is a $99.8 billion federal program designed to supplement the nutritional needs of low-income families. A USDA study cited by the governor’s office found roughly 20 percent of SNAP spending goes toward unhealthy drinks and foods.

USDA said the waiver aligns with Secretary Rollins’ “Laboratories of Innovation” initiative, which encourages governors to develop state-led solutions to strengthen federal nutrition programs.

The changes are expected to take effect in 2026.