Missouri Submits Waiver to Refocus SNAP on Healthy Foods

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Governor Mike Kehoe and the Missouri Department of Social Services announced Monday that the state has submitted a waiver request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to refocus the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The proposal seeks to prioritize healthy food purchases, discourage highly processed and sugary items, and strengthen support for Missouri agriculture. Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-30 directing the waiver, which also instructs DSS to explore additional strategies to incentivize the purchase of fresh produce, meats, dairy, and other minimally processed foods.

The plan also emphasizes initiatives like the Double Up Food Bucks program, which provides extra financial benefits for buying healthier options. Missouri’s request includes provisions to allow SNAP benefits for a broad range of nutritious items, including fruits, vegetables, proteins, dairy, whole grains, and legumes. The state is also exploring an additional waiver to permit purchases of hot, ready-to-eat foods such as rotisserie chicken. The waiver now enters a 30-day public comment period.

If approved, Missouri anticipates implementing the changes on October 1, 2026, following stakeholder engagement and USDA approval.