SNAP Funds Amendments

Utah seeks limits on SNAP soda purchases

The law took effect May 7, 2025. Utah's Department of Workforce Services must request federal permission by July 1, 2025, to block SNAP purchases of soft drinks. The restriction requires federal approval and must start within six months after approval. It covers nonalcoholic, carbonated, flavored drinks sweetened with sugar or artificial sweeteners. Drinks containing milk, milk products, soy, rice, or other milk substitutes are excluded. Drinks with more than 50% fruit or vegetable juice by volume are also excluded. Households can still buy these drinks with money other than SNAP benefits. If the request is denied, the department must apply again within three months and annually afterward until approval. The request must explain public health concerns, SNAP's purpose, and taxpayer savings. It must show that retailers' existing checkout systems can enforce the limits. It must also plan outreach about healthy food choices and track recipients' spending patterns and health outcomes. By November 1 each year, the department must report to the legislature's Economic Development and Workforce Services Interim Committee. The report must cover the request's status, Utah SNAP spending patterns, program challenges, and policy recommendations. It must also be included in the department's annual report. The law provides no new funding.