Arkansas Seeks Federal Approval to Restrict SNAP Purchases of Junk Food

Arkansas is seeking federal approval to limit how Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits—commonly known as food stamps—can be used. The proposed changes would prohibit the purchase of soft drinks and candy, including flour-based confectionery items, with SNAP benefits.

The move follows a similar waiver recently granted to Nebraska, which became the first state allowed to restrict SNAP purchases of soda and energy drinks.

Arkansas’s request goes further, also seeking permission to allow SNAP recipients to buy hot rotisserie chicken, a high-protein food currently not eligible under the program. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders called the change “common sense reform” in a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, stating that the current system “encourages and subsidizes the overconsumption of unhealthy, highly processed, and addictive food and beverages.”

If approved, the new restrictions would take effect July 1, 2026. The state legislature has already shown support, passing Act 969 of 2025 to authorize the waiver request.

According to state officials, about 23% of SNAP benefits in Arkansas are spent on sugary drinks, snacks, candy, and desserts. Health conditions linked to poor diet—such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease—cost the state’s Medicaid program an estimated $300 million per year.

In February, more than 239,000 Arkansans received SNAP benefits, with an average of $299.36 per household.

As part of implementation, the state will assist retailers in updating cash register systems to ensure only eligible items can be purchased using Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards.

Community Assistance Grants Available Through July 31

The Arkansas Economic Development Commission is also offering Community Assistance Grants of up to $1.5 million for cities, counties, unincorporated communities, and non-profit organizations.

Funds may be used for public facility improvements such as parks, ball fields, trails, and workforce training centers. However, the grants cannot be used for lobbying, entertainment, alcohol, private fairgrounds, debt repayment, or expenses incurred before grant approval.

The application deadline is July 31, 2025.