Montana Free Press, April 2026
In late March, Montana became one of nearly two dozen states aiming to limit which foods low-income families can purchase with SNAP, the food assistance program funded by the federal government. Like other states, Montana is proposing for SNAP benefits to be used for “healthy, nutritious food instead of soft drinks, junk food and candy.” State leaders, including the administration of Gov. Greg Gianforte, say the restrictions will promote healthy eating and improve health outcomes. But implementing the changes — and trying to avoid unintended consequences — may be easier said than done.
As of Thursday, the USDA had approved waivers outlining changes to SNAP for 22 states. But many states with approved waivers are still trying to clear administrative hurdles and have not yet implemented the changes. And in March, a group of SNAP recipients in states with restrictions filed a lawsuit against the USDA, challenging the government’s approval of SNAP restriction waivers on the grounds that the USDA cannot allow states to redefine what foods are eligible for the program.
