The Iowa House of Representatives advanced a bill out of committee last week to change the qualifications for SNAP benefits. The bill as constructed now will limit the assets, such as cars or homes, owned by those who receive benefits, in addition to work requirements and what types of food may be purchased. SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Aid Program) offers a supplement for needy families so they can purchase food, and were formerly known as food stamps. State Representative Brooke Boden tells KNIA News the bill as of now needs work, but the spirit of the bill is to define the guidelines of who receives assistance.

“We are not going out and letting them fund, buying taxpayers money buying soda and candy and maybe have some kids that aren’t being fed at home. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is very important, and defining those guidelines is kind of what they were after. Providing a million dollar appropriation to support that, purchasing fruits and vegetables. I think ultimately it’s gotten some bad press because of the way it was drafted originally with some stipulations. I was not on the sub-committee, but from what I hear those concerns are being addressed and it wont hit the floor that way.”

Any changes to SNAP benefits by the Iowa Legislature will require asking permission from the federal government Department of Agriculture, who run the program. Opponents of the bill state that those in need aren’t always homeless or without transportation, and limiting their participation will put a greater strain on local food banks.