Bill > SB161

This bill requires the Director of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) to submit a request to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for a waiver that would exclude certain food items from being purchased using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, commonly known as food stamps. Specifically, the bill seeks permission to prohibit SNAP recipients from buying soft drinks, candy, chips, ice cream, and prepared desserts like cakes, pies, and cookies. The aim appears to be restricting the purchase of less nutritious, processed food items through the federal food assistance program. By requiring ODJFS to seek a waiver, the bill attempts to implement nutritional guidelines that limit the use of SNAP benefits to foods considered more health-promoting, though the USDA would ultimately need to approve such a restriction.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb161