HHS Continues to Deliver (and Bring the Love!)
The Department of HHS has been busy working on the MAHA agenda, and this week was no exception!
On the 20th, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and the FDA unveiled the Chemical Contaminants Transparency Tool (CCT Tool), an online searchable database providing a consolidated list of contaminant levels (e.g., tolerances, action levels, and guidance levels) that are used to evaluate potential health risks of contaminants in human foods. Chemical contaminants include a broad range of chemical substances that may be present in food and potentially cause harm.
This tool is yet another example of the radical transparency promised to the American people.“HHS is committed to radical transparency to give Americans authentic, informed consent about what they are eating,” said Secretary Kennedy. “This new Chemical Contaminants Transparency Tool is a critical step for industry to Make America Healthy Again.”
Also this week, HHS and FDA announced “Operation Stork Speed,” an initiative that will expand options for safe, reliable, and nutritious infant formula for American families. For years, MAHA moms have been demanding our baby formula be free of toxic ingredients like heavy metals and other contaminants. MAHA mom Zen Honeycutt, founder of Mom’s Across America, partnered with GMOScience and The New MDS to test toxic metals in baby formula. Those tests revealed troubling results - 100% of the 40 samples they tested contained aluminum and lead, while 57% of the samples tested positive for arsenic, 55% for mercury, and 35% for cadmium. Six of the 20 formulas were positive for all five toxic metals in both samples!
Secretary Kennedy said of the initiative at HHS, “The FDA will use all resources and authorities at its disposal to make sure infant formula products are safe and wholesome for the families and children who rely on them. Helping each family and child get off to the right start from birth is critical to our pursuit to Make America Healthy Again.” The initiative is robust, and we encourage you to read more about it here.
Also, this week, a heartwarming moment as Secretary Kennedy and his wife Cheryl Hines celebrated World Downs Syndrome Day with beautiful families. Please watch the video and feel the love!
Reforming SNAP: Why Does it Matter?
The number of households utilizing SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) has increased significantly over the years, with an over 200% increase since the year 2000. Many American families depend on SNAP to help supplement their weekly food purchases. But should SNAP benefits include the ability to purchase sugary drinks, like soda, that contain harmful ingredients and are a detriment to their health?
Data from 2022 shows that SNAP recipients are drinking far more sugary drinks than their non-SNAP counterparts. “Big Beverage” makes significant money from the program; figures show that beverage companies generate almost 5 billion dollars a year in sales, specifically from the SNAP program. Sugary drinks and drinks sweetened with artificial sweeteners can cause metabolic disease and feed the chronic disease crisis in America - something MAHA is working hard to correct.
It’s for these reasons that the Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins, and the Secretary of HHS, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., are working together to help states that want to change the way those funds are used, making Americans Healthy Again in the process, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars aren’t being used to subsidize unhealthy choices. Those choices lead to more dependency on the healthcare system - not less - and can stand in the way of people reclaiming their health and thriving. Here is how the process works:
SNAP Waivers
The SNAP waiver process allows states to request exceptions or modifications to standard program rules to better align with local needs or policy goals. This process is governed by USDA regulations stipulating that waivers may be approved under conditions that enhance the program’s effectiveness and efficiency. States must submit a formal waiver request, typically including a detailed proposal outlining the proposed change, its justification, and an evaluation plan to assess its impact. The USDA reviews these requests based on criteria such as program integrity, administrative feasibility, and alignment with SNAP’s overarching goals of improving food security and nutrition.
To that end, at least 11 states have bills in committee or moving through the legislative process that would bar the purchase of sugary drinks and/or certain types of unhealthy food. Some have already passed. MAHA Action has been hyper-involved with other advocacy groups and experts to ensure that tax dollars will no longer subsidize sickness, which aligns with the sentiment from our Department of Agriculture and HHS.
Pushback? Of Course!
As we saw in Texas last week with the American Heart Association, big corporations and special interest groups, many of whom have long profited from government subsidies, are pushing back. The American Beverage Company, an organization that boasts major beverage companies like Coca-Cola and Pepsi, has an entire website dedicated to arguing that they are protecting a consumers “choice” to purchase unhealthy beverages under SNAP - an argument that fell flat on X this past weekend, as influencers allegedly paid to post anti-waiver posts were forced to delete them after backlash.
They will try to buy your opinion, but you are smarter than that.
After public outcry, the American Heart Association was forced to withdraw its position on Texas bill SB379. That is the power of MAHA, which is why we need your voice and support more than ever.
Legislation YOU Need to Know About
MAHA has been busy, and so have all of you! One of the most important things we can do as a grassroots group of passionate activists is lobby our state and local governments to ensure that the MAHA Agenda is solidified at the state level. Our legislative tool, located here, lists bills we are mobilizing around. You can use this tool to track legislation in your state, contact your lawmakers, and more!
You may have seen our very own Brigid Rasmussen speaking in Arizona this week at the Make Arizona Healthy Again roundtable discussion. MAHA Action was honored to participate with others who are working hard to advance the MAHA agenda across the country. Here are 5 bills we would like to bring to your attention this week!
Iowa -
HF7124: VERDICT: MAHA SUPPORTS
This bill removes legal immunity for vaccine manufacturers in Iowa, requiring them to waive liability protections for design defects before distributing, selling, or administering vaccines in the state. It overrides federal protections, including the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act, making manufacturers automatically liable for alleged vaccine-related injuries. This shift exposes vaccine makers to lawsuits, marking a major departure from existing federal liability shields.
The MAHA “Why?” MAHA Action supports this bill. Vaccine manufacturers should not be granted guaranteed immunity, especially when their products can cause harm and critical safety data is concealed from the public. The lack of accountability allows these companies to operate without responsibility for potential injuries. Implementing liability measures in cases of harm would incentivize manufacturers to conduct thorough trials and prioritize safety, ultimately ensuring greater transparency and public trust.
Arizona -
HB2164: VERDICT: MAHA SUPPORTS
This bill prohibits schools participating in federally funded meal programs from serving, selling, or allowing the sale of ultra-processed foods on school campuses during the normal school day, starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The bill defines ultra-processed foods as those containing specific ingredients such as potassium bromate, propylparaben, titanium dioxide, various food dyes (including Yellow dyes 5 and 6, Blue dyes 1 and 2, Green dye 3, and Red dyes 3 and 40,) and brominated vegetable oil. The Department of Education is required to post a standardized certification form on its website and maintain a list of public schools that have certified their compliance with these requirements. Parents and guardians are still permitted to provide ultra-processed foods to their children during the school day. The legislative findings behind the bill emphasize concerns about childhood obesity, the potential harm of nutrient-depleted foods with synthetic additives, and the importance of providing nutritious meals in schools. The bill is officially titled the "Arizona Healthy Schools Act" and is part of a broader effort to improve student nutrition and wellness by limiting access to potentially harmful processed foods in school settings
The MAHA “Why?” MAHA Action supports this bill, as it seeks to improve student nutrition and wellness by restricting access to ultra-processed foods in schools. These foods, which contain harmful additives, are often linked to childhood obesity and other long-term health issues. By limiting the sale and consumption of such foods on school campuses, the bill promotes healthier eating habits and enhances students' overall well-being. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to provide more nutritious meals in educational settings, ensuring children can access healthier options that support their physical and academic development.
HB2165: VERDICT: MAHA SUPPORTS
This bill proposes to modify Arizona's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance benefits to low-income individuals, by requiring the director of the Department of Economic Security to seek a waiver from the United States Department of Agriculture to prohibit SNAP recipients from purchasing soda using their benefits. Specifically, if the waiver is granted, the bill would prevent SNAP participants from buying carbonated beverages containing more than one gram of added sugar or any artificial sweetener. If the initial waiver request is denied, the director must continue to submit annual waiver requests until approval is obtained. The bill defines "soda" as any carbonated drink that meets the specified sugar and sweetener criteria. This proposed legislation aims to promote healthier food choices among SNAP recipients by restricting the use of government-provided nutrition benefits for sugary beverages, which are often linked to obesity and other health issues.
The MAHA “Why?” " MAHA Action supports this bill, as it aims to promote healthier choices among low-income individuals participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). By restricting the purchase of sugary and artificially sweetened sodas, this legislation encourages better nutrition and helps address the rising concerns of obesity and related health issues. The bill emphasizes a proactive approach to public health by using SNAP benefits to steer individuals toward more nutritious options, ultimately contributing to long-term health improvements for recipients.
Idaho -
S1023: VERDICT: MAHA SUPPORTS
This bill amends the Idaho Medical Freedom Act to broaden prohibitions on medical mandates across various contexts. The bill expands the scope of restrictions from specifically coronavirus-related mandates to a more comprehensive prohibition on medical interventions, which are defined as any procedure, treatment, device, drug injection, medication, or action taken to diagnose, prevent, or cure a disease. The legislation prevents businesses, schools, government entities, and ticket issuers from requiring or discriminating against individuals based on whether they have received or used a medical intervention. Specifically, the bill prohibits entities from refusing services, employment, or access to venues based on medical intervention status, mandating medical interventions as a condition of employment or school attendance (with limited exceptions for federal law requirements), offering different compensation based on medical intervention status, or requiring medical interventions to access government benefits, services, or buildings. The bill allows enforcement through the attorney general or county prosecuting attorneys, who can seek injunctive relief and are entitled to attorney's fees if successful. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is declared an emergency measure, signaling its immediate importance to the Idaho legislature.
The MAHA “Why?” MAHA Action supports this bill as it expands upon the Idaho Medical Freedom Act to safeguard personal medical autonomy. By broadening the scope of protections against discrimination related to medical interventions, the bill ensures individuals' right to make their own healthcare decisions without facing negative consequences in employment, education, or access to services. This legislation underscores the importance of protecting personal freedom and privacy, ensuring that people are not coerced into medical decisions by businesses, schools, or government entities. The bill's enforcement provisions also offer a strong mechanism for upholding these protections, making it a crucial step toward preserving medical freedom in Idaho.
Florida -
H0533: VERDICT: MAHA SUPPORTS
This bill comprehensively restructures and modernizes Florida's legal framework for naturopathic medicine by creating a more detailed and comprehensive regulatory system. The bill redesignates the existing chapter on naturopathy as "Naturopathic Medicine." It establishes a new Board of Naturopathic Medicine within the Department of Health, composed of seven members appointed by the Governor. The legislation defines key terms such as "naturopathic physician" and "practice of naturopathic medicine," specifying what services naturopathic physicians can and cannot provide. It establishes rigorous licensing requirements, including educational standards, examination procedures, and ongoing professional development. The bill also introduces detailed financial responsibility requirements for naturopathic physicians, including mandatory insurance or alternative financial guarantees, and creates specific disciplinary procedures and potential penalties for violations. Additionally, the bill mandates that naturopathic physicians advise patients about disclosing treatments to other healthcare providers and sets clear boundaries for professional practice. The legislation aims to protect public health by ensuring that naturopathic physicians are well-trained, financially responsible, and held to high professional standards while also providing patients with more transparency and choice in healthcare.
The MAHA “Why?” " MAHA supports this bill, as it safeguards the ability of naturopathic doctors to practice in Florida while also providing them with necessary protections and professional oversight. The bill ensures that naturopathic physicians can practice safely and effectively by creating a dedicated Board of Naturopathic Medicine, establishing clear licensing and financial responsibility requirements, and setting disciplinary procedures. This legislation enhances the profession and ensures that patients have access to qualified and well-trained naturopathic doctors, reinforcing both public health and professional standards in Florida.
LEGISLATIVE WIN!
Idaho - SB1023 “Idaho Medical Freedom Act” has passed in Idaho! Spearheaded by Dawn Richardson, Director of Advocacy for NVIC, the bill prohibits medical and vaccine mandates across the state. It now awaits Governor Little's signature before becoming law. The bill would prevent local governments and businesses from requiring any proof of "medical intervention," which includes any "procedures, treatments, devices, drug injections, medications, or actions taken to diagnose, prevent, or cure a disease."
If signed by Gov. Little, the law will take effect on July 1.
A MAHA Initiative YOU Can’t Miss!
MAHA Action is proud to announce the formation of the MAHA Healthy Food Task Force. The task force is full of powerhouse experts on nutrition, holistic medicine, health freedom, and more. They are already working hard to ensure that America is healthy, from school lunches to family dinners.
The task force is already overhauling the USDA dietary guidelines (kick that “food pyramid to the curb!), supporting state legislation to ensure healthy school lunch for our kids, and keeping an eye on toxic chemicals in our food supply. Keep your eyes peeled for further updates on how our Healthy Food Task Force is helping to MAHA!
Community and Camaraderie! Events to watch:
Earth Day is on April 22, and in the spirit of MAHA, we would love to see YOU take action in your community to organize events. Earth Day events are a great way to reconnect with your friends and bring new people into the MAHA mission. We encourage everyone to take the opportunity to re-engage and spread the word about MAHA!
What’s on the Horizon?
Battle for Your Frontal Lobe - Will You be Made Whole?
March 27-29th in Phoenix, Arizona
MAHA will have an exhibition booth, and Del Bigtree will speak on March 29th. If you are in the area, come by and say hello, and wear your MAHA Swag!
April 11-13th in San Diego, CA
MAHA will have an exhibition booth, and Del Bigtree will be the headlining speaker. Please consider supporting this important event and visiting us if you attend.
You Can’t Miss This Episode of the MAHA Podcast
Technology was supposed to set us free.
Instead, it’s rewiring our biology—and damaging our health in ways most people never see coming.
In this explosive episode of The MAHA Podcast, Del Bigtree sits down with Tristan Scott—electrical engineer, author, and digital detox pioneer—to expose how our screens, Wi-Fi, and everyday tech are poisoning us… and what we can do to fight back.
“We are electromagnetic beings—and our devices are distorting us at the cellular level.”
The modern world is hijacking your biology. But the good news? You can take back control.
🚨 What he reveals:
➜Why blue light and LED screens are wrecking your sleep, hormones, and eyesight.
➜How smartphones and Wi-Fi keep your brain under chronic stress.
➜The hidden EMF risks of AirPods, smart homes, and even electric cars.
➜Why kids are especially vulnerable—and how Big Tech designs addiction.
➜What you can do today to reduce exposure and restore health.
This episode rips the lid off the most pervasive toxin in modern life—and why ignoring it could cost us everything.
Click here to watch the full interview with Tristan Scott.
