Bill > HB3188

This bill proposes to restrict the types of food and beverages that can be purchased using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in Texas. Specifically, recipients would be prohibited from buying sweetened beverages, candy, potato or corn chips, and cookies that are packaged for immediate consumption. The bill provides detailed definitions for these items, including defining a "sweetened beverage" as any non-alcoholic drink with added natural or artificial sweeteners. However, the bill includes numerous exceptions to these restrictions, such as allowing purchases of milk products, milk substitutes, beverages with zero-calorie sweeteners, infant formula, weight reduction beverages, unsweetened fruit or vegetable juices, and products recommended by healthcare professionals or fortified with vitamins, minerals, or protein. The legislation is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and includes a provision that allows state agencies to delay implementation if federal authorization is required. The intent appears to be promoting healthier food choices among SNAP recipients by limiting the purchase of what are considered less nutritious processed foods and sugary drinks.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3188