Secretary Rollins Approves SNAP Waivers to Remove Unhealthy Foods in Six States
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, led by Secretary Brooke L. Rollins, has recently approved a significant policy change regarding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This alteration is part of the broader Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) initiative, aimed at promoting healthier food choices across the nation.
SNAP Waivers Approved for Six States
On December 10, 2025, Secretary Rollins, alongside Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., announced the approval of SNAP food-choice waivers for six states: Hawai‘i, Missouri, North Dakota, South Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. These waivers will modify the definition of eligible food items under SNAP starting in 2026.
Goals of the MAHA Initiative
The MAHA initiative seeks to mitigate the epidemic of chronic diseases in the U.S. Secretary Rollins emphasized the commitment of the administration to restore SNAP’s purpose to nutrition. This initiative is framed as a response to the increasing prevalence of health issues stemming from unhealthy eating habits.
Statements from Key Officials
- Secretary Rollins: Highlighted the importance of empowering states to lead in improving public health and protecting children from processed foods.
- Secretary Kennedy: Thanked the governors for their leadership in SNAP reform, aiming to reduce taxpayer burden associated with health-related expenditures.
- Dr. Mehmet Oz, CMS Administrator: Commended the collaborative efforts to tackle obesity and chronic diseases.
Support from State Governors
Key governors from the approved states expressed their gratitude and commitment to promoting healthier food choices:
- Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe: Praised the waiver for its potential to maximize nutritional health while supporting local agriculture.
- North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong: Envisions the waiver leading to better health outcomes for residents participating in SNAP.
- South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster: Expressed appreciation for the initiative’s focus on healthy food purchases, ensuring taxpayer dollars are effectively utilized.
- Tennessee Governor Bill Lee: Recognized the administration’s innovative solutions for improved health outcomes for Tennesseans.
- Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin: Noted that these waivers build upon previous initiatives to enhance the nutritional integrity of SNAP.
This new initiative marks a proactive approach to reversing health trends in the U.S., with 12 states, including those recently approved, participating in reforming SNAP to encourage healthier eating habits. As this policy rolls out in 2026, it aims to address long-standing issues surrounding nutrition and public health.
