Healthcare

HB 1236, the "Tennessee Health SNAP Act," would require Tennessee's Department of Human Resources to seek a federal waiver from the USDA to prohibit SNAP (food stamp) benefits from being used to purchase candy and soft drinks. If approved, this restriction would directly affect SNAP recipients in Tennessee who currently use benefits for these items. The bill mandates that the waiver request include public health justification, a plan for retailer system updates, recipient education on healthy alternatives, and a tracking system for spending and health data. It also requires annual reports to state leaders on the waiver status and impact. The bill is pending Senate action and would take effect July 1, 2025, if enacted.