Hunter
05/23/25
Starting in 2026, Iowans using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program dollars will be banned from purchasing candy, soda, and other carbonated beverages with the funds.
The Des Moines Register reports the change was made possible due to a waiver granted by the Trump administration Thursday. When it takes effect, the federal waiver will only allow Iowans to use SNAP dollars to buy foods that are exempt from sales tax in Iowa.
Governor Kim Reynolds issued a statement announcing the change, and said, “Soaring obesity rates have brought our nation and state to a crossroads. To promote healthy eating and protect future generations from disease — and to ensure SNAP fulfills its core function — we need a change.”
Reynolds submitted the request for the waiver May 12th. At the time, Sheila Hansen, a board member of the Iowa Hunger Coalition and policy advocate and government relations manager for Common Good Iowa, advocated for letting families make their own choices. She said, “Iowans should be trusted to make the best food choices for their families. Let’s make sure all Iowans have greater access to nutritious food, not punish our low-income neighbors and deny kids a candy bar when they want a treat.”
The Register says nearly 260,000 Iowans were enrolled in SNAP as of fiscal year 2024.