In the near future, I intend to introduce legislation aimed at restoring integrity and purpose to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by ensuring taxpayer-funded benefits are used for nutritious food purchases here in Pennsylvania.

SNAP supports nearly 2 million Pennsylvanians, including many children. The program is designed to help low-income families put healthy food on the table, not to subsidize junk food. However, a 2016 U.S. Department of Agriculture report revealed that SNAP households spend approximately 20 cents of every dollar on sugary beverages, salty snacks, candy, and desserts.

This is not just a question of health. It is also a matter of responsible use of taxpayer dollars. At a time when obesity, diabetes, and other preventable conditions are on the rise and healthcare costs are skyrocketing, it is simply common sense to ensure public assistance programs encourage better nutritional choices, not worse ones.

My legislation will direct the Department of Human Services to seek a federal waiver that would exclude candy and soft drinks from SNAP-eligible items in Pennsylvania. These are not necessities, and they should not be funded by taxpayers.

This is a pro-health, pro-taxpayer, and pro-accountability initiative. I hope you will join me in supporting this effort to promote healthier outcomes and more responsible stewardship of public resources.