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SCR 105

URGING GOVERNOR MEYER TO SUBMIT A WAIVER REQUEST TO THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SNAP) BENEFITS FOR THE PURCHASE OF CANDY AND SODA IN ORDER TO ADVANCE NUTRITIONAL GOALS AND IMPROVE PUBLIC HEALTH OUTCOMES.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Darius Brown and 5 co-sponsors

Resolution urges governor to seek federal waiver restricting SNAP purchases of candy and soda to improve public health, raising concerns about paternalism and equity in benefit programs.

Defeated By Senate. Votes: 5 YES 14 NO 1 NOT VOTING 1 ABSENT
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Bill Summary · SCR 105

Legislative bill overview

SCR 105 is a symbolic resolution urging Delaware's Governor to request a federal waiver from the USDA to restrict SNAP (food stamp) recipients from purchasing candy and soda. The resolution frames this restriction as a public health measure aimed at reducing obesity and improving nutritional outcomes among low-income populations.

Why is this important

SNAP serves approximately 42 million Americans, including many children and seniors. Dietary restrictions on benefit programs raise fundamental questions about government paternalism, personal autonomy, health equity, and whether such measures effectively improve health outcomes or primarily serve to stigmatize low-income recipients.

Potential points of contention

  • Paternalism vs. autonomy: Critics argue the state shouldn't dictate personal food choices for adults receiving benefits, while supporters contend public health justifies limiting purchases of products linked to obesity and diabetes
  • Practical effectiveness: Evidence on whether item-level restrictions change purchasing patterns or just inconvenience recipients is mixed; some argue addressing root causes (food deserts, income, education) is more effective
  • Equity concerns: Opponents note that restricting only SNAP purchases (not other payment methods) creates a two-tiered system where low-income people have fewer choices than wealthier citizens buying identical products
  • Implementation burden: Retailers would need system updates to enforce restrictions; administrative costs may exceed health benefits
  • Federal authority: USDA waiver authority is limited; current law provides flexibility but may not permit item-specific bans

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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