CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The debate over what food assistance dollars should cover is gaining steam nationwide.
A growing number of states, most led by Republicans, but now including some Democrats, are asking the federal government for permission to ban soda, candy, and other sugary products from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.
Governor Bill Lee wants Tennessee to join that list.
His plan would block the purchase of products that list sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, or similar sweeteners as the first ingredient.
At the same time, it would expand SNAP access to certain hot prepared foods, like grilled chicken tenders and rotisserie chicken, that are currently off-limits.
Supporters, including backers of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ‘s “Make America Healthy Again” movement, say the changes could improve public health and curb diet-related illnesses.
But critics warn that restricting choices could stigmatize low-income shoppers, and note there’s little evidence these bans lead to better health outcomes.
The proposal is still in the planning phase and would require federal approval before taking effect.
If approved, it could impact the more than 711,000 Tennesseans who rely on SNAP benefits each month.
