Bill > A04416

This bill requires the Department of Social Services to apply for a federal waiver or authorization to create a list of healthy and nutritious foods and beverages that can be purchased using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The bill aims to improve the health of SNAP beneficiaries by restricting the use of benefits to more nutritious food items. The proposed list of approved foods includes infant and adult cereals, fruits, vegetables, nuts, meats, fish, bread, rice, flour, spices, tortillas, fruit and vegetable juices, eggs, milk, cheese, peanut butter, jelly, dried beans, soy beverages, and tofu. The bill specifically excludes foods with significant amounts of added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or sodium, such as soft drinks, confectionery products, desserts, and processed foods with high salt content. The department will develop this list in consultation with the Department of Health, considering items approved for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. The bill will take effect immediately, but the specific provisions related to the food list will only be implemented after receiving federal approval.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4416