Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that limits the types of food that may be purchased using SNAP benefits in Tennessee.

Highlights:

• Specifies that the department shall submit a request for a federal waiver to the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service to seek authorization to prohibit the use of SNAP benefits for the purchase of candy and soft drinks (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that the waiver shall include the following (Sec. 1):

• A justification citing:

• Public health concerns;

• SNAP's statutory intent; and

•  Cost savings to taxpayers;

• An implementation plan ensuring that existing point-of-sale systems

• used by retailers in this state can properly enforce the restriction;

• A strategy for education and outreach informing SNAP recipients of

• alternative healthy food options; and

• A reporting mechanism to track the impact of the waiver, including

• spending patterns and health outcomes.

• Specifies If the waiver is approved, then the department shall implement the restriction within 6 months of receiving federal authorization (Sec. 1).

• Specifies the department shall submit an annual report to the governor and the chair of the health and welfare committee of the Senate and chair of the committee of the House of Representatives having jurisdiction over health-related matters on the following (Sec. 1):

• The status of the waiver request;

• Data on SNAP spending patterns in this state; and

• Any identified challenges or recommendations for further policy action.

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text