Rep. Jordan Redman, R-Coeur d’Alene, on the Idaho House floor on March 25, 2024. (Kyle Pfannenstiel/Idaho Capital Sun)
A North Idaho representative introduced two bills on Friday morning that would change how Idahoans use the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — or SNAP, formerly known as food stamps.
The first bill would address a “junk food epidemic,” bill sponsor Rep. Jordan Redman, R-Coeur d’Alene, told the Idaho House Health and Welfare committee. It would require the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to seek approval from the federal government to exclude candy and soda from SNAP-eligible foods.
Another bill would require the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to add photo identification to SNAP benefit cards and replace existing cards with the photo identification within 18 months of the legislation taking effect. According to the department, at least 125,000 Idahoans received SNAP benefits in 2023.
The bill is estimated to cost the state and federal government a combined $1.1 million, according to the legislation.
Redman said the purpose of this legislation is to add accountability and reduce fraud in SNAP.
Rep. Faye Thompson, R-McCall, asked Redman how the legislation would impact disabled individuals who aren’t able to go shopping independently. In response, Redman said he would suggest individuals obtain a power of attorney declaration.
The committee voted to advance both bills, clearing the way for a public hearing at a later date.
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