BOISE, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement is gaining more traction with the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and Secretary of Health and Human Services signing three new waivers to amend Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP), according to a release by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Arkansas, Idaho and Utah had requested a waiver to exclude certain foods from SNAP purchases. Previous waivers were signed for Nebraska, Iowa and Indiana.

“Idaho proudly welcomes the MAHA movement because it is all about looking for new ways to improve nutrition, increase exercise, and take better care of ourselves and one another, especially our children. We are excited to partner with the Trump administration in bringing common sense to the government’s food assistance program with the approval of our SNAP waiver,” said Governor Brad Little.

Idaho’s submitted a waiver request in May to exclude soda and candy. The waiver was approved by the USDA and will take effect on January 1, 2026.

The Arkansas waiver excludes soda, low and no-calorie soda, fruit and vegetable drinks with less than 50% natural juice, other unhealthy drinks and candy, this will take effect July 1, 2026.

The Utah waiver excludes soft drinks and will take effect January 1, 2026.

Secretary Rollins is encouraging healthy eating and lifestyle habits while protecting taxpayer funding for SNAP.

“The Trump Administration is unified in improving the health of our nation. America’s governors have proudly answered the call to innovate by improving nutrition programs, ensuring better choices while respecting the generosity of the American taxpayer. Each waiver submitted by the states and signed is yet another step closer to fulfilling President Trump’s promise to Make America Healthy Again,” said Secretary Rollins.

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