04/23/2026
Recently, Colorado has joined 22 other states in proposing restrictions for SNAP and what consumers can buy.
The "SNAP Healthy Choice Waiver" aims to restrict the purchase of artificially sweetened drinks such as soda, sweet teas, sports drinks, and more, as a way to improve the health of those using SNAP benefits.
With the rising cost of healthy, nourishing meals and a lack of resources, most people are left with food choices that are quicker, more convenient, and less fulfilling. The reality of this waiver is that it turns its attention to policing the choices of the community rather than addressing the larger systems of food injustice that affect us all.
Over 82,000 El Paso County residents rely on SNAP benefits, and even more including people who aren't able to receive benefits but still struggle to afford healthy food.
"That is not a health policy. That is poverty management dressed up as public health." - Patience Kabwasa, Executive Director of Food to Power
Read more about the SNAP Healthy Choice Waiver at https://pikespeakbulletin.org/featurednews/no-benefits-from-colorados-proposed-snap-restrictions/
