Bill > SB662

This bill proposes to modify the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families, by adding a new section to Missouri state law that would seek to restrict the purchase of certain food items. Specifically, the bill would require the director of the Department of Social Services to request a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to exclude candy and soft drinks from eligible food items under SNAP. The bill defines "candy" as a sugar-based preparation that includes chocolate, fruit, nuts, or other ingredients, and "soft drinks" as non-alcoholic beverages containing sweeteners, excluding drinks with milk, milk substitutes, or those with more than 50% fruit or vegetable juice by volume. If the waiver is granted, the director would be required to prohibit SNAP beneficiaries from using their benefits to purchase these specific food items. If the initial waiver request is denied, the director must continue to submit annual waiver requests until one is approved. This proposed change aims to restrict the use of nutritional assistance benefits for what are considered less nutritious food items.

Health and Social Services

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=3860497