This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 9-2-14, to the Code of West Virginia, aimed at enhancing nutrition within the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The bill defines "candy" and "soft drinks" in accordance with existing definitions in section 11-15B-2. It mandates that the Secretary of the Department of Human Services request a waiver from the United States Department of Agriculture to exclude these items from the list of eligible foods under federal regulations.

If the waiver is granted, the Secretary will prohibit the use of SNAP benefits for purchasing candy and soft drinks. In the event that the waiver is not granted, the Secretary is required to request it annually until approval is obtained. The overall goal of the bill is to improve the nutritional quality of foods purchased with SNAP benefits, thereby promoting better health outcomes for recipients.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-2-14