Bill > H4643

This bill aims to modify South Carolina's approach to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by requiring the Department of Social Services to seek a federal waiver that would prohibit SNAP recipients from purchasing candy and soft drinks using their benefits. The bill defines "candy" as sugar-based treats that do not require refrigeration and "soft drinks" as carbonated, sweetened beverages (excluding milk-based or high-fruit juice content drinks). The department must submit a waiver request to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) that includes justifications such as public health concerns related to sugar consumption, the program's nutritional goals, and potential Medicaid cost savings. If approved, the restrictions would be implemented within six months, and if denied, the department must resubmit the request annually. The bill also mandates that the department work with retailers to update point-of-sale systems to prevent restricted purchases and requires an annual report to the General Assembly detailing the waiver's status, spending trends, implementation challenges, and policy recommendations. This proposed legislation reflects growing concerns about nutrition and health among government assistance program participants, seeking to guide recipients towards healthier food choices.

Budget and Finance

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4643&session=126&summary=B