By Andi Anderson
In a move aimed at curbing the nation's rising health issues, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has granted waivers to 12 states, allowing them to restrict what recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can purchase with their benefits.
These restrictions mainly target sugary foods like soda and candy, aiming to promote healthier choices among SNAP recipients.
The states receiving approval are mostly Republican-led, with Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, and West Virginia joining earlier states such as Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, and Utah.
These states will now be able to limit the types of foods their residents can buy through SNAP, part of U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s agenda to "make America healthy again."
Kennedy stated that SNAP has contributed to America’s diabetes and chronic disease epidemics, and these waivers are designed to refocus the program on healthier food options. “These waivers help put real food back at the center of the program and empower states to lead the charge in protecting public health,” Kennedy said.
However, critics argue that such restrictions could disproportionately affect low-income individuals, particularly in food deserts where access to healthy food options is limited. They also claim that restricting food choices undermines the autonomy and dignity of SNAP recipients.
Craig Gundersen, a Baylor University economics professor, voiced concern that the changes could harm the integrity of the program, which has long been regarded as a success due to its ability to provide dignity and autonomy to recipients.
“One of the main reasons why SNAP is such a successful program is because it gives dignity and autonomy to recipients,” Gundersen explained.
While the policy aims to improve public health outcomes, it remains controversial, with ongoing debates about its potential impact on food insecurity and personal choice.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Indiana, General