The new waivers, which go into effect in 2026, mean families will no longer be able to purchase products like soda or candy using their SNAP benefits. Some argue that this means families can no longer buy goods that may be used in celebrations like birthday parties or gatherings. However, the reforms differ state by state.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins recently signed waivers to change the definition of food that’s allowed to be purchased under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, the official name of food stamps, in Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas and West Virginia. The changes go into effect in 2026.