WASHINGTON, D.C. (WJHL) – Rep. Phil Roe reintroduced a bill Wednesday aimed at preventing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients from purchasing food with no nutritional value with their benefits.

According to a news release, Roe reintroduced the Healthy Food Choices Act, which would prohibit the purchase of soft drinks, candy, energy drinks and other low-nutrition items with SNAP benefits.

“As a physician, I understand how important a healthy diet is, and I strongly believe we should prioritize the necessity and healthfulness of food items subsidized by taxpayers,” Roe said. “After hearing from many constituents at town hall meetings about the ongoing issue of SNAP benefits being used to purchase non-essential items, I decided to bring this issue to Congress. As an OB-GYN, I have seen how the WIC program helps empower families receiving assistance by prioritizing healthy food purchases for expectant mother, and believe that this program can serve as a guide for what we allow within SNAP.”

“I understand that many families rely on SNAP benefits, and my bill does not cut SNAP. This bill does, however, ensure the items being purchased with SNAP benefits are real, nutritious food items. SNAP recipients are still able to purchase any of the prohibited items with personal funds, but I believe taxpayers should only provide assistance in purchasing wholesome, nutritious foods,” Roe said. “This bill is not perfect, but I hope it will start the important conversation about how we improve the health of families who rely on government assistance programs.”

TO READ THE BILL, CLICK HERE.

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