TULSA, OKLA (KTUL) — Oklahoma will implement new restrictions on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, prohibiting the purchase of items such as soda and candy starting Feb. 15, 2026. Implementations were originally going to take place on January 1, 2026, but were adjusted to allow additional time for retailers to complete system updates and ensure a smooth rollout for families.
This change is part of Governor Kevin Stitt’s “Make Oklahoma Healthy Again” initiative, following the approval of a waiver request by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The waiver allows states to limit SNAP purchases of certain non-nutritious items, impacting over 600,000 Oklahomans who rely on these benefits.
The waiver does not change who is eligible for SNAP or how much assistance families receive. This policy does not prevent SNAP clients from buying candy or soda, it just clarifies what SNAP benefits will cover.
State officials assert that the restrictions aim to improve public health, reduce long-term healthcare costs, and align the SNAP program with its original purpose of enhancing food security through nutritious food access. They say the timing of this waiver reflects what is being seen nationwide, states responding to high rates of diet-related diseases, and a renewed federal focus has been placed on health. Oklahoma’s leadership wanted to be part of that broader effort.
However, State Rep. Mickey Dollens expressed concerns, stating, “While micromanaging what person puts in their basket at the grocery store isn’t addressing the real health issues in the fact that people don’t have access to fresh produce, they live in food deserts, minimum wage is still $7.25, and the majority of Oklahomans are below the poverty level.”
Dollens also argues that similar restrictions in other states have not effectively addressed health issues and may place an additional burden on grocery stores, which must recalibrate their systems.
“If you look at statistics and data in other states that have tried this it doesn’t actually help address health issues. If anything, it can make them worse and also it puts a burden on the grocery stores that have to go in and recalibrate all of their systems,” he said.
The Oklahoma Department of Human Services has been working with retailers to update their systems in preparation for the changes.
For more information on the Healthy Food Waiver, click here.
