Bill > HB1236

This bill introduces the "Tennessee Health SNAP Act," which aims to modify the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, commonly known as food stamps) in Tennessee by requesting a federal waiver to prohibit the use of SNAP benefits for purchasing candy and soft drinks. The bill requires the state department to submit a waiver request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service, which must include a comprehensive justification citing public health concerns, the program's original intent, and potential cost savings. The waiver request must also outline an implementation plan to ensure point-of-sale systems can enforce the restriction, develop an education strategy to inform SNAP recipients about healthy food alternatives, and create a reporting mechanism to track the impact of the restriction. If the waiver is approved, the state must implement the restriction within six months. The department will be required to submit annual reports to the governor and legislative committees detailing the waiver's status, SNAP spending patterns, and any challenges or recommendations. The bill defines "candy" and "soft drinks" according to federal government definitions and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with the goal of promoting healthier food choices for SNAP recipients.

Health and Social Services

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1236&ga=114