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). It defines "candy" and "soft drinks" as per existing definitions in section 11-15B-2. The bill 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 purchase of candy and soft drinks using SNAP benefits. In the event that the waiver is not granted, the Secretary is required to request it annually until approval is obtained. This legislative effort seeks to improve the nutritional quality of food purchased with SNAP benefits by limiting access to less healthy options.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-2-14