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Washington Senate panel hears sharp opposition to bill to bar candy and sweetened drinks from SNAP
Summary
The Senate Human Services Committee heard hours of testimony Feb. 2 for and against SB 6186, which would direct DSHS to seek USDA waivers to prohibit SNAP/Basic Food purchases of candy and sweetened beverages; opponents cited dignity, medical needs, and retailer burdens while supporters cited child health concerns.
The Senate Human Services Committee on Feb. 2 heard competing arguments over Senate Bill 6186, a proposal that would direct the state Department of Social and Health Services to request a federal waiver to bar SNAP (Basic Food) benefits from being used to buy candy and sweetened beverages.
Allison Mendiola, committee staff, told members the bill would require DSHS to request a USDA waiver to prohibit certain purchases and that the bill report contains definitions for candy and sweetened beverages. Mendiola also said a preliminary fiscal note shows a cost of about $781,000 in the current biennium and roughly $320,000 in the subsequent biennium, with departmental implementation costs still being synthesized.
Supporters framed the bill as a targeted public-health measure. Mary Long of Conservative Ladies of Washington testified she supports the restriction…
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