The Trump Administration has secured early victories, with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. leading efforts to improve nutritional standards for SNAP (food stamp) recipients. While states administer SNAP, the federally funded program requires waivers to restrict what can be purchased with benefits.

Though Secretary Kennedy cannot directly ban items like soda or candy, he has helped twelve states obtain waivers to limit such purchases. Recently approved states include West Virginia, Florida, Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. Earlier waivers were granted to Nebraska, Iowa, Indiana, Arkansas, Idaho, and Utah.

All twelve states will ban sugary drinks under SNAP. Eight will prohibit candy, and at least three will bar energy drinks. Some may also restrict juice with under 50% real fruit content.

Kennedy said these waivers restore “real food” to the center of SNAP. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins called the move vital to the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, adding that the administration is reshaping national nutrition standards. She praised states for “taking steps to address chronic health issues” and promote healthier choices for low-income families.