Two New West Virginia Laws Take Effect January 1, 2026. including a first‑in‑the‑nation restriction on using SNAP benefits to buy soda.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia will ring in the new year with two significant policy changes taking effect on January 1, 2026, including a first‑in‑the‑nation restriction on using SNAP benefits to buy soda.
The West Virginia Department of Human Services confirmed that soda — including regular, diet, and zero‑calorie varieties — will no longer be eligible for purchase with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. The change follows federal approval of a waiver granted to the state on August 4, 2025, after Governor Patrick Morrisey first requested the restriction in May.
State officials say the move is aimed at improving public health outcomes.
Also taking effect January 1 is a new law passed during the 2025 legislative session updating regulations for insurance holding company systems. According to legislative summaries, it is the only bill from the session scheduled to begin on the first day of 2026; other measures took effect earlier in the year.