Oppose Harmful Restrictions on SNAP in Georgia

Proposed bill H.B. 947, the Georgia SNAP “Healthier Choices” Act, would make it more difficult and burdensome for eligible families to qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Georgia. H.B. 947 would implement new data-matching and verification procedures for families applying for SNAP benefits, including a check of applicants’ citizenship status. It would also require applicants to report the immigration status of their family members, whether or not those family members are applying for the program. These reporting requirements would have a chilling effect and deter families in need from participating in SNAP for fear of how their data will be used. Moreover, such requirements would place an increased administrative burden on applicants, especially families with language barriers.

H.B. 947 would additionally place limits on certain food and drink that can be purchased with SNAP benefits. Such a restriction could have devastating impacts on many families. Nearly 15% of Georgia’s population is already struggling with food insecurity and almost a million people are living in food deserts.

H.B. 947 has already passed in the Georgia Senate and has moved to the House for passage. Tell your representatives to oppose H.B. 947, which punishes families who are already struggling to put food on the table.

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