Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt announced Thursday that the state is seeking federal permission to exclude soft drinks and candy from the list of items eligible for purchase under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps.
This announcement was made during an event at the Oklahoma State Capitol with U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as part of the broader “Make America Healthy Again” initiative.
State’s Move to Limit Junk Food Purchases on SNAP
Governor Stitt explained that Oklahoma is joining several other states in requesting a federal waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to prohibit the purchase of sugary beverages and candy under SNAP.
If granted, this would limit the ability of low-income families to purchase items like soda, energy drinks, and other similar products using their SNAP benefits.
Stitt’s proposal is part of a larger push to encourage healthier eating habits among residents, particularly those relying on government assistance.
“If you want to drink a bottled soda, you should be able to have that right,” said Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during the announcement. “But the federal government should not be paying for it with taxpayer money.”
SNAP, which provides over $100 billion annually in benefits to about 42 million Americans, is a program run by the USDA and administered through state agencies.
Focus on Public Health and Artificial Additives
In addition to seeking the SNAP restriction, Governor Stitt signed an executive order addressing two additional public health issues. The order questions the appropriateness of mandatory fluoridation of public drinking water, a practice long promoted as a method to reduce dental decay.
Under the executive order, the Oklahoma State Department of Health and the Department of Equality have been directed to cease any endorsement of water fluoridation.
However, the decision will still be left to local municipalities to decide whether to continue fluoridation in their communities. The State Health Department will also conduct a comprehensive review of water fluoridation practices and provide recommendations on how the state might transition away from them.
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Governor Stitt also outlined plans to reduce the use of artificial food coloring in state-run meal programs, including those in prisons and public schools. One of the key targets is the commonly used Red Dye 40, which has come under scrutiny for potential health risks.
“We’re going to get the ball rolling on making Oklahoma healthy again,” Stitt said, framing these actions as critical steps in prioritizing public health and reducing unnecessary risks for Oklahomans.
What Do You Think?
Do you agree with Governor Stitt’s proposal to limit what can be bought under SNAP benefits? Do you think removing sugary drinks and candy from the program will improve public health, or do you think it’s an overreach? Share your thoughts and stay informed on related developments by visiting RidgecrestPact.org
