Morrisey submits SNAP waiver removing soda, adding healthy food

Governor Patrick Morrisey submitted a waiver request to the U. S. Department of Agriculture to remove sugary sodas from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This step aligns with House Bill 2354, which bans certain food additives and dyes in processed foods starting January 1, 2028. Morrisey expressed that SNAP should focus on nutrition, stating, “the ‘N’ should stand for nutrition.

” The waiver would shift SNAP benefits to allow the purchase of healthier food options, addressing West Virginia's alarming obesity and diabetes rates. The state ranks high nationally for these health issues, with over 41% of adults classified as obese. Morrisey's announcement included his "Four Pillars of a Healthy West Virginia," which emphasize nutrition, job training, and increasing access to healthy food. He aims to promote healthy eating habits and improve public health outcomes in the state. This initiative represents a significant policy shift towards combating health-related challenges in West Virginia.