U.S. Rep. Keith Self Proudly Serving Texa's 3rd District | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman Keith Self has introduced a new bill aimed at improving public health and reducing taxpayer expenses. The legislation, known as the Funding is Zero for Zero Nutrition Options (FIZZ-NO) Act, seeks to eliminate the purchase of sugary carbonated beverages through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
"SNAP was originally created to help the poorest Americans access nutritious food," Congressman Self stated. "Allowing taxpayer dollars to subsidize sugary sodas, which offer zero nutritional value and contribute to costly health conditions, is counterproductive. The FIZZ-NO Act is a common-sense solution to strengthen public health and reduce the financial burden on taxpayers."
Sugary carbonated drinks are a major source of added sugars in American diets and are linked to obesity and other related health conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 40% of adults and 19% of children in the U.S. are classified as obese. Consumption of these beverages is associated with higher risks of diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses. These health issues reportedly cost the healthcare system $190 billion annually, with much of this expense covered by Medicaid, impacting taxpayers.
The full text of the bill can be accessed online.
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