Arizona Legislature Moves to Limit SNAP Soda Purchases: What’s at Stake?

By Jonathan Eberle |

The Arizona State Senate is evaluating a new measure aimed at redefining how Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits can be utilized. House Bill 2165 seeks to prohibit recipients from purchasing soda with their benefits. If the bill progresses, the state’s Department of Economic Security (DES) would pursue a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to enact this policy.

This legislation has already gained traction in the Arizona House of Representatives, passing with a narrow vote of 32-27-1. Under the proposed law, the Director of DES is required to request the waiver, which, if approved, would forbid SNAP recipients from acquiring carbonated beverages with more than one gram of added sugar or containing artificial sweeteners. In the event the waiver is denied, Arizona would be obligated to reapply annually until approval is secured.

SNAP, once known as the Food Stamp Program, provides vital assistance to low-income households for grocery purchases. While it covers a diverse range of food products like bread, meat, and dairy, it explicitly excludes items like alcohol, tobacco, dietary supplements, and various non-food goods.

Proponents of H.B. 2165 argue that the bill encourages healthier dietary choices among low-income families. They believe it ensures taxpayer-funded resources are prioritized for nutritious foods. However, opponents assert that the legislation disproportionately affects SNAP recipients and raises concerns over the practicality of enforcing such a restriction.

The bill is currently under review by the Senate’s Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee. Should it pass and receive the governor’s signature, it would be implemented contingent on the USDA granting the necessary waiver.

Initial evaluations suggest that the financial impact of this legislation would be minimal, with no additional costs to the state’s General Fund identified. As discussions on the bill progress, a crucial dialogue continues around the intersection of nutritional policy and individual choice.