Texas bill proposes ban on using food stamps to buy junk food

A proposed law would ban Texans from using food stamps on junk food like energy drinks, candy, cookies and some chips.

KHOU reported that the bill, HB4364, was filed March 8 in the House Committee for Human Services by Rep. Briscoe Cain, R-Deer Park.

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The proposed bill would ban people from using their SNAP benefits on energy drinks and beverages with 54 milligrams of caffeine or more per 8 fluid ounces, WOAI reported.

Sweetened or carbonated beverages, some potato or corn chips, candies and cookies are also included in the list of banned items.

"At-risk Texans and families who utilize the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are often the most susceptible to diabetes and the serious complications associated with it," Cain said, according to KHOU.

“HB 4364 seeks to curb the spread of diabetes and other health complications among Texans in at-risk populations by eliminating sugary drinks and snacks from the state’s nutrition assistance program.”

Vegetable juice, drinks for weight reduction, drinks recommended by a health care professional, drinks fortified with a mineral or vitamin and formula are among the items that can be purchased under SNAP benefits.

The bill and list of prohibited items can be read at Texas.gov.

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