Iowans speak out against bill that would limit SNAP benefits during House subcommittee hearing
Some Iowans are speaking out against a proposed plan they say will make it harder for people in need to feed their families.
Nearly 40 House Republicans signed off on , which would limit which Iowans qualify for public assistance programs, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
Originally, the bill would have limited Iowans on the program from buying certain foods like fresh meat or white bread. Lawmakers took out that piece of the bill on Thursday, but some Iowans tell vlog that they still have concerns about the bill.
"I have a complex, chronic health condition, and doctors recommend I keep Snickers bars, pretzels and Powerade on me," Tara, who opposes the bill, said. "Why aren't you trusting me to use my own discernment? You're not my physician. You're not my nutritionist."
The bill would make Snickers bars, and any other candy or soda products, off-limits for people like Tara, who rely on food assistance.
Under the bill, low-income, older and disabled Iowans who rely on public assistance would have to meet new requirements to stay in the government programs.
The bill adds new identity questionnaires and requires the state to frequently check if Iowans on public assistance have had changes in where they work, how much they make and where they live.
Some argue new asset tests would make Iowans who live in a household with more than one car more likely to lose their benefits.
"There's only one car that you can have, but you're supposed to work 20 hours. If there's more than one person in a household, how do you get that done?" Paula Blake, who opposes the bill, said.
House Republicans argue the new bill is necessary to make sure the state is still helping Iowans in need while spending taxpayer wisely.
"We want to make sure that people who are getting them are eligible for them. They're all your tax dollars. We want to make sure we're giving them to the right people," Republican Rep. Ann Meyer said.
The bill passed out of the subcommittee on Thursday. It now goes on to be heard in committee. Lawmakers say they anticipate making several changes to that bill.
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