Colorado has achieved a critical milestone in public health as the U.S. Department of Agriculture has granted the state a waiver to limit the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for purchasing soft drinks and sugary beverages. Governor Jared Polis expressed optimism about this development, stating, “Today’s waiver is a big step towards improving the health of Coloradans and reducing obesity rates, diabetes, and tooth decay.” He believes that by limiting shelf space for sugary drinks, more room will be available for healthier food options, ultimately helping to combat food deserts in Colorado.
The SNAP program is aimed at assisting low-income families in stretching their grocery budgets to include nutritious foods. The newly granted waiver specifically targets beverage purchases, allowing only milk-based drinks and 100% juice options while excluding sweetened beverages high in sugar or artificial sweeteners—those with five or more grams of sweetener per 12 ounces.
This waiver marks the first of three that Colorado had applied for in May, highlighting the state’s commitment to enhancing food access and options for its residents. Additionally, legislation signed by Governor Polis directs the Colorado Department of Human Services to seek approval for SNAP recipients to utilize their benefits at participating restaurants.
Colorado is also awaiting two more approvals that would enable SNAP participants to access hot prepared foods at grocery stores and simplify the process for farmers’ market vendors to accept SNAP payments. Governor Polis remains hopeful, saying, “We also look forward to USDA approval of two additional waivers requested by Colorado to expand choice and further boost access to healthy, convenient foods for families across our state.”
Notably, this waiver follows similar approvals in other states, including West Virginia, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas, all of which are implementing restrictions on soda and sugary beverages. Florida’s waiver takes it a step further by also excluding energy drinks, candy, and prepared desserts.
With Colorado consistently ranking among the healthiest states, as evidenced by its low obesity rate of 24.9% per U.S. News and World Report, this measure could further enhance the health profile of its residents. The waiver is set to take effect on March 1, 2026, which provides an encouraging outlook for healthier eating habits in the state.