Bad news for food stamp recipients: it looks like you will have to find another way to get your energy fix for that mid-day slump.
There is now a new proposal to ban food stamp recipients from using their benefits on certain groceries. The proposal would ban people from purchasing energy drinks or any beverage that contains at least 54 milligrams of caffeine in 8 fluid ounces.
Of course, this does not include coffee, because that would just be pure evil.
What’s Included in the Ban?
The Texas bill will also prohibit people from using food stamps to buy items considered junk food, such as:
- Candy
- Some chips
- Cookies
State Representative Briscoe Cain (R-Baytown) filed Bill HB4364 on March 8, in the House Committee for Human Services.
SNAP recipients would still be able to use their benefits for fruit or vegetable juice.
Why Is This Being Proposed?
According to Representative Cain, Texans and families who use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are often the most susceptible to diabetes and the serious complications associated with it.
This new bill aims to curb the spread of diabetes and other health issues among Texans, especially within high-risk populations, by eliminating any sugary drink and snack from SNAP benefits. This comes as nearly 3 million people in Texas are living with diabetes.
Diabetes and pre-diabetes cost an estimated $23.7 billion every year in Texas.
These costs include serious complications such as:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- End-stage kidney disease
- Amputation
- Death
- Blindness
A Bold Move in Texas
I guess you could say it’s a pretty bold move especially since it’s in Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new proposal about food stamps in Texas?
The new Texas proposal, House Bill 4364, aims to ban the use of SNAP (food stamp) benefits for certain items including energy drinks, candy, cookies, and some chips. The bill targets foods and beverages with high sugar or caffeine content, except for coffee and natural juices.
Are energy drinks completely banned under this proposal?
Yes, the proposal would ban energy drinks or any beverages with at least 54 milligrams of caffeine per 8 fluid ounces from being purchased with food stamps. However, coffee is specifically excluded from the ban.
Who filed this bill and when?
State Representative Briscoe Cain (R-Baytown) filed House Bill 4364 on March 8. It is currently under review by the House Committee for Human Services.
Why is Texas targeting certain foods for SNAP recipients?
The bill aims to address public health concerns, particularly the high prevalence of diabetes among low-income Texans. Supporters argue that restricting sugary and caffeinated items can reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.
Will any healthy beverages still be allowed?
Yes, SNAP recipients will still be able to purchase fruit and vegetable juices with their benefits, as these are not part of the proposed ban.