Committee advances bill asking Idaho to seek federal waiver to remove soda and candy from SNAP

The House Health and Welfare Committee voted to send House Bill 109 to the House floor with a do-pass recommendation after debate over the bill’s scope and administrative feasibility.

Representative Jordan Redmond introduced HB 109 on behalf of his district, asking Idaho’s director of Health and Welfare to request a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to exclude soda and candy from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). “We shouldn’t be subsidizing people to eat poison,” Redmond said, urging the state to pursue a change in federal SNAP rules.

Opponents questioned the bill’s definition of covered products and how retailers and the state would administer the restriction. Representative Rubel noted the bill’s definition could sweep in items like granola and protein bars; Rubel argued some products described could be nutritious options for struggling families. Rep. Rubel and several other members of the committee expressed concerns about enforcement and unintended consequences for retailers.

Supporters framed the measure as part of a national movement to improve dietary choices in SNAP and cited statements from federal officials who have criticized sugar-sweetened beverage access in nutrition programs. Representative Redmond referenced comments from federal figures in support of targeting sugary drinks in nutrition policy.

The committee held a roll call at the request of members. The clerk recorded the votes and reported the motion passed 8–7. No amendments were adopted in committee; the bill advances to the full House for further consideration.