Texas Republicans are taking aim at junk food purchases with food stamps in a bold move that could change how government benefits are used. The proposed bill would force welfare recipients to make healthier choices with taxpayer dollars.
At a glance:
• Texas Senate Bill 379 would ban SNAP recipients from buying junk food including soda, candy, chips and cookies
• The bill is sponsored by Republican State Senator Mayes Middleton with bipartisan support in the legislature
• If passed, the restrictions would take effect September 1, 2025, pending federal approval
• Implementation costs are estimated at $1.54 million, funded by state and federal sources
• Critics argue the bill limits personal freedom while supporters say it aligns with SNAP’s original nutrition goals
Republicans Push for Healthier SNAP Program
Texas lawmakers are advancing legislation that would prohibit the use of food stamps to purchase junk food in a move supporters say will improve public health and ensure responsible use of taxpayer dollars. Republican State Senator Mayes Middleton authored Senate Bill 379, which specifically targets items like soda, energy drinks, candy, chips, and cookies that contribute to obesity and other health problems.
The bill has passed the Senate Committee on Health & Human Services and is now awaiting further legislative approval. Similar legislation has been introduced in the Texas House by Republican Representative Stan Gerdes.
The legislation aligns with other Republican-led efforts at both state and federal levels to reform welfare programs and encourage healthier choices. Several Senate Republicans have voiced support for the measure, arguing it helps fulfill SNAP’s original mission of providing nutritious food to those in need.
Bipartisan Efforts and Implementation Details
Although Republicans are leading the charge, the bill has attracted bipartisan interest with similar proposals introduced by Democratic State Representative Richard Raymond. The proposed restrictions would include exemptions for essential items such as milk, milk substitutes, infant formula, nutritional supplements, and certain health-recommended foods.
Implementation of SB 379 would require federal approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which currently allows SNAP benefits to be used for most food purchases except alcohol, tobacco, and hot prepared meals. The bill calls for an estimated $1.54 million in implementation costs, with funding coming from both state and federal sources.
Previous attempts to limit junk food purchases with SNAP in Texas have failed due to lack of legislative traction and federal hurdles. If the current bill passes both chambers and receives the required federal waiver, the restrictions would take effect on September 1, 2025.
National Movement and Opposition Concerns
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has publicly supported restricting ultra-processed foods and harmful additives in government food programs.
The WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program already excludes junk food and focusses exclusively on healthy foods and nutrition education.
Critics of the new bill argue that SNAP users should maintain the freedom to choose their own food, including occasional treats for children or items needed for specific medical conditions. Some opponents also point to “food deserts” in low-income areas where grocery stores with healthy options may be scarce or nonexistent.
