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Lawmakers introduce RS to restrict SNAP purchases of candy and soda; sponsors cite health concerns
Summary
Representative Jordan Redmond introduced RS32087 directing the department to seek a waiver to restrict candy and soda purchases with SNAP, citing soda as the top SNAP purchase and public health concerns; committee members questioned definition scope and waiver feasibility.
Representative Jordan Redmond asked the committee to introduce RS32087, a bill aiming to restrict certain junk food purchases with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, with a focus on soda and candy.
"Taxpayers are currently funding a growing health crisis, with soda ranking number 1 as the commodity bought through SNAP," Redmond said, urging the RS be introduced "to take a step for making Idaho healthy again." He said the bill would ask the department to submit a waiver to the federal government to implement the restriction.
Committee members asked clarifying questions about scope, waiver feasibility, and potential unintended consequences. Representative Fuhrman asked about the chances of obtaining a federal waiver; Redmond said the chances are "higher now with the new administration" but acknowledged waivers can be difficult to obtain, and that the department would be asked to submit the request.
Representative Wheeler asked whether definitions in the draft could unintentionally exclude diet sodas or certain sparkling/mineral waters; Redmond acknowledged that definitions are difficult and that stakeholders had raised similar concerns. Representative Ekberg asked whether dietitians or diabetes advocacy groups had been consulted; Redmond said he had met with two dietitians who supported the concept though they had not yet reviewed the draft language.
Representative Thompson questioned where regulators would draw the line and whether such restrictions could expand. Redmond replied that because SNAP uses taxpayer dollars, the state should have oversight and that the approach is intended to advance healthy living for children and families.
Representative Fuhrman moved to introduce RS32087; the motion passed by voice vote. The committee did not adopt final statutory language at introduction. Redmond said department staff indicated they currently have staff who could prepare the waiver and that he was told there would be no added cost to the general fund to request a waiver.
