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Health subcommittee advances bill to bar candy and soft drinks on SNAP; debate focuses on definitions and waiver process
Summary
The House Health Subcommittee on Feb. 19 advanced House Bill 12 36, directing state human services to seek a federal waiver to bar the purchase of candy and soft drinks with SNAP benefits; the measure passed the panel 7-2.
NASHVILLE — The House Health Subcommittee on Feb. 19 advanced House Bill 12 36, a proposal by Speaker Zachary that would direct the Tennessee Department of Human Services to request a federal waiver to prohibit the purchase of candy and soft drinks with SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. The motion to move the bill to the full Health Committee passed 7-2.
Supporters said the restriction is meant to align SNAP with the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and to push beneficiaries toward healthier purchases. "The goal of this legislation is to provide healthier outcomes and options for those who are on the SNAP program by prohibiting the purchase of soft drinks and candy through the SNAP program," Speaker Zachary said,…
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