
New Bill Would Prevent SNAP Users From Purchasing These Items in Maine
Okay guys, listen up because this possible change is going to affect a large portion of Maine residents.
According to a Press Release, a new bill could shake up how the SNAP benefits are used.
What is SNAP in Maine?
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) gives low-income families funds to buy food and access to nutritious meals to help reduce food insecurity, as per SNAP.
Congressman Josh Brecheen reintroduced the Healthy SNAP Act. This act would stop SNAP recipients from using their benefits to buy junk food, like candy, ice cream, soda, and potato chips.
What's the idea behind this bill?
As per the release, to more nutritious foods.
The Congressman said it’s also about saving taxpayer money by reducing healthcare costs that create obesity and other diet-related diseases.
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Here's what could be off the table
If the bill passes, SNAP benefits could no longer be used for:
- Soft drinks
- Cookies
- Candy
- Ice cream
- Other prepared desserts
- Potato chips and similar snacks
The folks who support the bill pointed out that sugary drinks and junk food make up a large chunk of the SNAP spending.
As per the release, more than 20% and Brecheen argues that pulling back on these types of purchases will help improve health and save billions in federal healthcare costs tied to obesity stating,
"Approximately 75% of adults and around 33% of children in the United States are currently overweight or obese."
The Healthy SNAP benefit states,
"Prepared meals purchased with SNAP benefits must have nutritional values consistent with standards developed by USDA for the list of food and food products."
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What about the critics?
Well, they raise the questions about access, to cultural foods and whether these restrictions might add unnecessary hardships and hurdles for the people who rely on the SNAP program.
So what's next?
As per the Congressman, there are over 42 million Americans that use SNAP. The healthy SNAP act is gaining traction and already has an impact.
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What do you think? Reach out to our APP and let us know your thoughts on this new bill being introduced.

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