Proposed bill would ban Texans from using food stamps to buy energy drinks

SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) – A Sate lawmaker has filed a bill aimed at preventing Texans from using food stamps to buy sweets, sugary beverages and energy drinks.  The measure authored by Deer Park Republican Rep.  Briscoe Cain would also prohibit recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program from using their benefits to purchase potato chips and cookies.

“SNAP is to support nutrition among low-income households, which I would say is directly contradicted by allowing sweetened beverages to be purchased,” said Cain. ”

He added that SNAP benefits shouldn’t pay for products that go against the intention of the program.

“At risk Texans and families who utilize SNAP are often the most susceptible to diabetes and serious complications.  This bill seeks to curb the spread of those ailments,” said Cain.

If approved by the Texas Legislature, the state would  have to get a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which administers SNAP benefits with states.

You can read the proposed bill in its entirety here.  

 

 

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