SNAP Restrictions Will Hurt Iowa Families, Businesses and Veterans

Iowans deserve the freedom to decide their own groceries.

Policymakers in Iowa are rapidly considering restrictions on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) that would remove eligibility for certain foods or beverages, including sugar-sweetened and carbonated beverages such as zero-sugar drinks and sparkling waters.

Government-imposed restrictions on SNAP purchases set a dangerous precedent for government overreach in our daily lives. Here’s what you need to know:

  • More red tape, no cost savings – SNAP restrictions don’t save taxpayer dollars. In fact, they will likely increase program costs and create unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

  • Government shouldn’t control your grocery cart – Every American deserves the freedom to decide what’s best for their family—without government interference.

  • Restrictions are not the solution – SNAP restrictions won’t improve anyone’s health. Obesity rates continue to rise, despite the decline in full calorie beverage consumption. Restricting grocery choices is NOT the solution.

Restricting what one segment of the population can buy at the grocery store just because they need temporary government assistance goes against American values. These proposals treat families and veterans as second-class citizens.

In hard economic times like these, families don’t need one more person telling them what they can and cannot do. But more restrictions would put us on a slippery slope where bureaucrats get to decide which foods and beverages some Americans are allowed to serve their families.

Iowa lawmakers must reject government overreach and protect Iowans by opposing HF 796.

Expanding, not restricting, choice is the best way to support Iowans – and all Americans – in achieving balance and improving their health. Real solutions offer:

More Choices: Americans are already shifting their beverages to options with less or zero sugar. They are taking advantage of more than 600 low- and zero-sugar choices available today.

Less Sugar: Today, nearly 60 percent of beverages Americans buy have zero sugar. In fact, since the beverage industry launched its Balance Calories Initiative in 2014, beverage calories per person have gone down 10.3 percent.

Smaller Portions: The majority of beverage brands now come in smaller portion sizes like mini cans (7.5 oz) for those who want a little less.

Clear Information: Easy-to-see calorie count labels are on the front of every bottle and can sold, making it easier for consumers to make informed choices.

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