Michigan Lawmakers Want to Remove Pop From SNAP Benefits

A new bill introduced by eight different Michigan lawmakers would make pop (known to non-Michiganders as "soda") an ineligible product to be purchased with SNAP benefits.

The bill was introduced to the Michigan House of Representatives by Representative Brad Paquette from Niles back at the end of March.

The new bill would actually be an amendment to the existing "Social Welfare Act".

How Many States Have Proposed Bills to Ban Soda From SNAP Benefits?

This isn't a unique bill. The states of Indiana, Arkansas, and Idaho have proposed similar bills recently. Why? Well, it comes down to the "N" in "SNAP".

SNAP stands for "Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program" and is currently set up to cover produce, meat, dairy products, bread, cereal, and more. But, one of the "and mores" covered by SNAP is "snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages".

READ MORE: How Michiganders Can Get The Most Bang for Their SNAP/EBT Buck

While that applies to a lot of things, the lawmakers proposing these bills would like it to apply only to,

These lawmakers assert that soda does not contribute to "nutrition", which is what the "N" in "SNAP" stands for.

What Products Aren't Allowed to Be Purchased With SNAP Benefits in Michigan?

If soda were to be banned from SNAP benefits, it would join a long list of other products, such as

• Beer
• Wine
• Liquor
• Tobacco
• Vitamins
• Medication
• Supplements
• Live animals (okay...)
• Food that is "hot at the point of sale". (Like a rotisserie chicken.)
• Pet food
• Cleaning supplies
• and hygiene items.

UP NEXT: 10 Food Shortages & Price Increases Michigan Could See This Year ⬇️

My own personal opinion is that I get that lawmakers are looking to help people live healthier lifestyles, but it seems unfair (and, frankly, a bit elitist) to tell those who rely on SNAP benefits that they can't have a snack food or a soda every once and a while. Everyone deserves a little sweet treat occasionally.