- Michigan lawmaker Brad Paquette, R-Niles, introduced a bill to ban soda from being purchased using SNAP benefits
- The proposal is part of a broader push to limit sugary items in federal assistance programs
- Critics warn the policy could increase administrative costs and stigmatize low-income families
Is it “pop” or “soda”? No matter what you call it, there is a growing concern about whether people should be allowed to use SNAP benefits to purchase the fizzy drink.
State Rep. Brad Paquette, R-Niles, recently introduced a bill to add soda to the list of foods households cannot use SNAP benefits to buy. The state would have to request a waiver from the US Department of Agriculture.
The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides low-income individuals and families with a monthly stipend to buy groceries…