An Iowa lawmaker has recently proposed legislation that aims to restrict the types of food that can be purchased using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, sparking a conversation about the role of government in influencing dietary choices. The proposed bill, HSB216, seeks to exclude “junk” food from SNAP eligibility, joining a growing chorus of voices at both state and federal levels that are open to reforming the types of food that can be bought with SNAP benefits.
SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, has been a cornerstone of federal nutrition assistance since its authorization by the Food Stamp Act of 1964. The program, now managed by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), provides low-income families with monthly benefits to purchase household foods. The Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to formulate and administer the program, with states determining eligibility and issuing benefits to eligible households.
Under current regulations, SNAP benefits can be used to purchase a wide range of food items, including fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, breads, cereals, and snack foods. However, certain items are explicitly ineligible, such as alcoholic beverages, tobacco, hot foods, and non-food items like pet food and cleaning supplies. The USDA plays a crucial role in determining which foods are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits and in selecting qualifying retailers.
For states like Iowa that wish to deviate from these regulatory provisions, the process involves requesting a waiver from the FNS. There are two types of waivers: general waivers and demonstration waivers. General waivers allow states to deviate from specific regulatory provisions under certain conditions, such as extraordinary temporary situations or unique geographic conditions. Demonstration waivers, on the other hand, are used for pilot or experimental projects aimed at increasing the efficiency of the SNAP program or improving the self-sufficiency of recipients.
The proposed Iowa bill, HSB216, seeks to appropriate $1 million to the Double Up Food Bucks Program, which provides a 1-to-1 match for SNAP recipients to purchase fruits and vegetables. However, the funds are contingent upon FNS granting Iowa’s Department of Health and Human Services (Iowa HHS) approval of a waiver to restrict the types of food that can be purchased with SNAP benefits. The proposal specifies that only certain foods, such as real eggs, meat, dairy, bread, grains, fruits, vegetables, cereals, and legumes, would be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
The implications of this proposed legislation are significant. If approved, it could set a precedent for other states considering similar restrictions on SNAP-eligible foods. The bill aims to promote healthier eating habits among low-income families by limiting access to less nutritious food options. However, it also raises questions about the role of government in dictating dietary choices and the potential impact on food retailers that rely on SNAP benefits for a significant portion of their sales.