Texas Senate Debates Bill to Restrict SNAP Purchases of Junk Food

Senate Bill 379, which aligns with federal public health goals, faces criticism for its potential impact on low-income families and food access.

Texas Senate Bill 379 proposes prohibiting SNAP benefits from being used to buy junk food, including soda, candy, chips, and cookies.
The bill aims to align SNAP with its original purpose of promoting nutrition, citing USDA data showing significant SNAP spending on unhealthy foods.
Critics warn the restrictions could harm low-income families, especially those in food deserts, and suggest incentivizing healthy food purchases instead.
The bill requires federal approval before implementation and is part of broader national efforts to address obesity and chronic disease through nutrition-focused reforms.
The Trump administration and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. support similar measures as part of the 'Make America Healthy Again' initiative.