H.R.479 - Healthy SNAP Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.479, the Healthy SNAP Act of 2025, aims to amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 by directing the Secretary of Agriculture to designate specific foods eligible for purchase under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This designation would prioritize nutritious foods while excluding items like alcohol, tobacco, soft drinks, candy, and certain desserts. The bill mandates a review of designated foods at least every five years to reflect current scientific knowledge and cultural eating patterns.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be a shift in the types of food purchased under SNAP, potentially leading to healthier diets for recipients. It could also impact food manufacturers and retailers, as demand for certain products may increase or decrease. State agencies may also have increased administrative burden related to food substitutions.
Potential Benefits
- Improved nutritional intake for SNAP recipients.
- Potential reduction in diet-related health issues among low-income populations.
- Encouragement for food manufacturers to produce healthier options.
- Flexibility for state agencies to accommodate cultural dietary needs.
- Periodic review ensures alignment with current nutritional science.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential limitations on individual choice and autonomy in food selection.
- Increased administrative burden for the Secretary of Agriculture and state agencies.
- Possible challenges in defining and categorizing foods, leading to disputes.
- Risk of unintended consequences on food affordability and accessibility.
- Potential for cultural insensitivity if dietary guidelines are not carefully considered.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, which allows Congress to provide for the well-being of the population. Specifically, the bill aims to improve public health through dietary adjustments within the SNAP program. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual liberties or rights enumerated in the Constitution or its amendments, such as the First Amendment.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).