Katie DeAngelis

My name is Katie DeAngelis. I am a resident of Nottingham, NH, and I am writing in opposition to HB 1773, “An Act relative to food and drink purchased under SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.” While I fully support efforts to help people make healthier food choices, this bill targets individuals and families who are already facing economic hardship. SNAP participants use these benefits to ensure they and their children have access to food (often in situations of food insecurity, where EVERY dollar counts). HB 1773 would direct the state to seek a federal waiver to prohibit the use of SNAP benefits for certain foods and beverages like sweetened drinks and candy. But punishing SNAP recipients by limiting the foods they can buy does not address the underlying causes of poor nutrition or food insecurity. It places further restrictions on a vulnerable population without providing real access to affordable, healthy alternatives. What of a family needed to buy a cake for a child who was having a birthday? Instead of restricting choices for low-income families, we should focus on: - Expanding access to affordable fresh foods and nutritious options, especially in areas with limited grocery access; - Investing in nutrition education and support services that help families make informed choices without penalizing them; and - Working with retailers and community organizations to improve the availability and affordability of healthy foods. SNAP exists to ensure that no one in New Hampshire goes hungry. Restricting how benefits are used (WITHOUT addressing affordability and accessibility) risks exacerbating food insecurity rather than improving health outcomes. For these reasons, I respectfully urge the committee to oppose HB 1773. Thank you for your attention and service. Sincerely, Katie DeAngelis Nottingham, NH