wyoming governor mark gordon




*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*

*Governor Directs State to Restrict Purchase of Low-Nutritional Foods with SNAP Benefits*

*CHEYENNE, Wyo. October, 31, 2025–* Governor Mark Gordon (R-WY) today announced that he is issuing an Executive Order (2025-07) [ [link removed] ]directing the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) to begin the process of submitting a waiver request to restrict the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for the purchase of certain foods that offer little or no nutritional value, such as sugary beverages, and candy.

“Wyoming taxpayers expect their dollars to support food assistance that helps families put healthy food on the table,” Gov. Gordon said. “SNAP is intended to help feed people, and Wyoming knows how to provide nutritious food. This order will ensure taxpayer funds are used to assist those in need to provide nutritious food for themselves and their family. This EO allows the Director of the Department of Family Services to continue the thoughtful, thorough review resulting in a sensible, implementable waiver for our residents.”

Under the Executive Order, DFS will conduct a full review of food items with low or no nutritional value currently eligible for purchase under federal SNAP rules. After completing its review, DFS will determine which items should be excluded from SNAP purchases and prepare a plan that includes a list of proposed excluded items, all information required to request a federal waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and a phased rollout option to ensure accuracy and reduce administrative burden on retailers, particularly in rural communities.

“Our thoughtful approach to innovation and change has made Wyoming's SNAP program one of the best nationally,” said Korin Schmidt, director of DFS. “We plan to use this same roadmap as we develop the SNAP Food Restriction Waiver, aiming to encourage healthier options for our SNAP families.” 

Recognizing the complexity of administering the federal program, the order also directs DFS to consider the impact on Wyoming’s SNAP error rate, retailer participation, especially in rural areas, and any associated administrative costs.

“Wyoming will lead with common sense knowing food assistance should support only wholesome nutrition,” said Governor Gordon.

*For more information: *

Amy Edmonds, Communications Director, [email protected]  

Janelle Collins, Strategic Communications Director, [email protected]  







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 Wyoming Seal [ [link removed] ]

   



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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Governor of Wyoming · State Capitol, 200 West 24th St · Cheyenne, WY 82002-0012 · 307-777-7434 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]