Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, joined by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., launched the “Make Oklahoma Healthy Again” (MOHA) initiative on Thursday at the State Capitol, marking a bold push toward healthier public policies across the state.
As part of the campaign, Stitt announced that Oklahoma has formally submitted a federal waiver request to prohibit the purchase of soda, candy, and similar processed foods with SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. If approved, Oklahoma would join a small group of states seeking to limit the use of food stamps for sugary and nutrient-poor items.
“For far too long, we have settled for food that has made us sicker as a nation,” said Governor Stitt. “In Oklahoma, we’re choosing common sense, medical freedom, and personal responsibility.”
SNAP, a $100 billion federal program, serves over 42 million Americans. Though regulated by the USDA, states can apply for waivers to tailor benefit rules to address regional health concerns.
“If you want to drink a bottled soda, you should be able to have that right,” said Secretary Kennedy. “But the federal government should not be paying for it with taxpayer money.”
Governor Stitt signed an Executive Order during the Capitol event, which calls for a statewide review of several public health policies. Key components of the order include:
- Establishing the MOHA Advisory Council
- Phasing out water fluoridation following a state agency review
- Directing state agencies to remove artificial dyes from food served in schools and correctional facilities
- Expanding clean-living education and community wellness programs
Secretary Kennedy praised Stitt’s leadership, saying, “These bold steps are helping protect and restore the health of all Oklahomans.”
The duo’s visit included a tour of Mom’s Meals in Oklahoma City, a facility that produces nutritious, medically tailored meals, and a stop at Governor Stitt’s family ranch, where they filmed a segment promoting homegrown food and chemical-free living.
As the legal request regarding SNAP restrictions moves forward, Stitt emphasized that Oklahoma’s long-term goal is “to cut through processed junk and empower families to live healthier lives.”
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