Bill > HB1486

This bill modifies regulations for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a federal food assistance program that helps low-income individuals and families purchase food. The bill prohibits SNAP recipients from using their benefits to purchase certain "accessory foods," which are specifically defined to include energy drinks (beverages with at least 65 milligrams of caffeine per 8 ounces and marketed for metabolic stimulation), sweetened beverages, soft drinks (carbonated drinks with added sugar or artificial sweeteners), corn or potato chips, and prepared desserts like cookies, candy, ice cream, cakes, and pies. The legislation provides several exceptions to these restrictions, such as milk products, milk substitutes, beverages intended for infants or weight reduction, and products recommended by healthcare professionals. Additionally, the bill requires the office of the secretary of family and social services to seek any necessary federal waivers to implement these restrictions and allows for a delay in implementation if such waivers are pending. The Indiana Department of Health is also mandated to promote healthy eating as part of its wellness activities, including developing materials to guide recipients on purchasing and preparing healthy foods within a limited budget, with the aim of encouraging more nutritious food choices among SNAP participants.

Education

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1486/details