The debate surrounding the use of taxpayer-funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for soft drinks has intensified in South Dakota. The Legislature is pushing for a federal waiver to prohibit these purchases, even as tensions rise between lawmakers and the governor regarding funding and policy direction.
Legislative Directives and Governor’s Standpoint
PIERRE, S.D. (KELO) — The South Dakota Legislature is directing the Rhoden administration to apply for a federal waiver so that soft drinks could no longer be purchased with taxpayer-funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.
On Thursday, Republican legislative leaders elaborated on their decision to pursue the waiver, despite Republican Governor Larry Rhoden’s hesitation to allocate state funds necessary for implementation.
Governor Rhoden contended that Congress should have prohibited the use of SNAP benefits for soft drinks on a national scale, rather than allowing individual states to address the matter on their own.
Speaking to reporters, Rhoden acknowledged that SNAP benefits should not be spent on soft drinks and other items deemed unhealthy, such as candy.
However, he refrained from indicating whether he would attempt to veto the Legislature’s directive.
The Senate granted final legislative approval to House Bill 1056 on Wednesday afternoon, with a vote of 27-6 sending the bill to the governor for consideration.
When asked by KELOLAND News what aspects of his message might have fallen short, Rhoden stated, “Well, I guess you can lead a horse to water. You can’t make him drink. And I think that kind of sums it up.”
He explained that in an election year, legislators face significant pressure over such initiatives and are concerned about how their votes may be perceived.
“My focus has been on good policy regarding this as a federal program. The federal government has recognized that numerous states have implemented this same SNAP waiver. That makes it increasingly difficult to oppose it when many states are moving forward,” he added.
Rhoden articulated his frustration over Congress’s inaction, stating, “It’s a nightmare of different products that qualify or don’t qualify based on state perceptions and tax systems. This is absolutely ridiculous. The feds should fix it.”
Key Takeaways
- The South Dakota Legislature is pushing for a waiver to restrict SNAP benefits from being used to purchase soft drinks.
- Governor Larry Rhoden acknowledges that soft drinks should not be bought with SNAP benefits but questions the necessity of a state directive.
- Rhoden believes it is Congress’s responsibility to enact a nationwide prohibition rather than rely on individual states.
- House Bill 1056 has been approved by the Senate and is awaiting the governor’s decision.
- Legislators express concerns over public health costs associated with subsidizing unhealthy products.
FAQ
What is House Bill 1056 about?
House Bill 1056 seeks to restrict the use of SNAP benefits for purchasing soft drinks in South Dakota.
What is Governor Rhoden’s stance on this issue?
Governor Rhoden agrees that SNAP benefits should not be used for soft drinks but argues that Congress should address the issue on a national level.
Will there be a veto from the governor?
Governor Rhoden has not confirmed whether he will veto the bill, stating he will review it before making a decision.
Conclusion
The discussion surrounding the use of SNAP benefits for soft drinks highlights broader questions about health policy and fiscal responsibility. As the governor and legislature navigate these issues, the outcome of House Bill 1056 will likely have significant implications for public health initiatives in South Dakota.
