Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-MT) has introduced the Ensuring Health in SNAP Act, aiming to facilitate states' ability to ban junk food within their food stamps programs. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, was established as a joint state-federal welfare initiative to provide temporary or supplemental food assistance to needy individuals and families. Over time, the program's eligibility and spending have expanded, incorporating a broader range of food options, including junk food that can adversely affect recipients' health.
“The Ensuring Health in SNAP Act would give states more control over their food stamp programs and help ensure taxpayer resources focus on building up healthy families for a healthy future,” stated Maggie Harrell, Director of Federal Affairs for the Foundation for Government Accountability (FGA). “Over the years, the federal government has wrestled too much control away from states’ ability to administer welfare programs. Rep. Rosendale deserves tremendous credit for working to hand power back to states to run healthier, more responsible programs.”
Harrell highlighted concerns regarding recent expansions in SNAP spending under the Biden administration. She noted that increased control from Washington D.C., coupled with fewer restrictions on junk food purchases and a rise in able-bodied adults on the program, has led to inefficiencies.
“Taxpayers are spending more than $11 billion per month on the food stamps program, with an estimated 20 percent going to junk food. Food stamps have become a high-cost, low-nutrition bloated entitlement,” Harrell added. “With 41 million people on food stamps, including 17 million able-bodied adults, it’s more important than ever to ensure tax dollars aren’t funding poor health. Rep. Rosendale’s bill is an outstanding step in the right direction, empowering states to take control of their programs and chart a healthier course for our nation.”
For further information on FGA's research concerning food stamp reforms, visit FGA’s Farm Bill microsite.
The Foundation for Government Accountability (FGA) is a non-profit think tank promoting public policy solutions aimed at enabling Americans to achieve the American Dream.