U.S. Agriculture and Health Officials Announce New SNAP Waivers to Promote Nutritional Choices

(Washington, D.C., December 10, 2025) – In a significant move aimed at improving the health of Americans, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, alongside U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has unveiled the approval of six new state waivers under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These waivers, initiated by the states of Hawai‘i, Missouri, North Dakota, South Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee, will adjust the definition of “food for purchase” within the program starting in 2026 as part of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) initiative.

“President Trump has made it clear: we are restoring SNAP to its true purpose – nutrition,” said Secretary Rollins. “Through the MAHA initiative, we are implementing historic steps to combat the chronic disease epidemic that has plagued our nation for far too long. The leadership of our governors showcases a commitment to finding innovative solutions that respect taxpayer contributions while enhancing the health of American families.”

HHS Secretary Kennedy echoed these sentiments, stating, “I want to thank the 18 governors who are taking a stand for SNAP reform to improve the health of Americans, particularly our children. We cannot maintain a system that allows taxpayers to fund initiatives that contribute to illness and then requires further funding for healthcare.”

“This administration is committed to a comprehensive approach in tackling obesity and chronic disease,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “By collaborating with states on impactful initiatives like the SNAP waivers, we are honoring President Trump’s vision for a healthier America.”

Statements from Participating Governors

Governor Mike Kehoe of Missouri expressed gratitude for the waiver’s approval, stating, “We are proud to team up with the Trump administration on the MAHA initiative, focusing on maximizing nutritional health for our families while also supporting Missouri’s agricultural success.”

Governor Kelly Armstrong of North Dakota remarked, “Investing in healthier food purchases through SNAP is a proactive approach toward becoming the healthiest state in the nation, which will significantly improve the lives of North Dakotans.”

Governor Henry McMaster of South Carolina thanked both President Trump and Secretary Rollins for supporting a sensible approach to enhance SNAP by prioritizing healthier choices, ensuring taxpayer funds are optimized for citizen wellbeing. “Our efforts will keep South Carolina leading the charge in the MAHA initiative,” he stated.

Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee highlighted the Trump Administration’s innovative leadership in creating solutions that will benefit families and health outcomes. “I am grateful for the fast approval of our SNAP waiver, which will ensure nutritious food reaches every community in Tennessee,” he affirmed.

Governor Glenn Youngkin of Virginia noted that these approvals are a continuation of Secretary Rollins’ “Laboratories of Innovation” initiative, inviting states to propose solutions for stronger federal nutrition programs. “Today’s announcement, along with previous waivers from states like Arkansas, Idaho, and others, marks a significant collaborative effort to enhance SNAP’s nutritional integrity,” he concluded.

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