Bill > SB1833

This bill directs the Oklahoma Department of Human Services to seek federal approval, known as a waiver, from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service to restrict what can be purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which are funds provided to low-income individuals and families to buy food. Specifically, the Department must try to get permission to prohibit the use of SNAP benefits for buying candy and soft drinks, and may also seek authorization to ban other "nonnutritive" food items if the Director of Human Services deems them so. To get this waiver, the Department must provide a justification based on public health, SNAP's original purpose, and potential cost savings, along with a plan to ensure retailers can enforce the restrictions, educate recipients about healthy alternatives, and track the impact of the changes. If approved, these restrictions would need to be implemented within six months, and the Department would be required to submit an annual report to state legislative leaders and the Governor detailing the waiver's status, SNAP spending, and any challenges or recommendations. This act is set to become effective on November 1, 2026.