SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Georgia lawmakers met today, Feb. 11 in efforts to consider legislation that could significantly change how residents using food assistance benefits spend their money. If passed, the bill would impose new restrictions on what can be purchased with EBT cards, marking a major shift in how the state administers its food assistance program.

The proposed legislation targeted three main areas:

• prohibiting users from buying prepared foods and drinks in stores,
• preventing the theft and selling of benefits,
• and reducing Georgia’s error rate to 6 percent.

Republican Representative Martin Momtahan, who championing the bill, argued the necessity for the state to comply with federal law while protecting both taxpayers, and those who legitimately receive benefits.

“This bill is not about taking benefits away from eligible families,” Momtahan said. “It is a bill about protecting the program so it remains sustainable, credible, and focused on the people that it was designed to serve.”

However, the legislation has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers who worry about its potential impact on Georgia families already struggling with food insecurity. Representative Tangie Herring expressed concerns that the bill takes the wrong approach to addressing hunger in the state.

“I support improving health outcomes for Georgia families, but HB 947 focuses on restricting what families can buy rather than addressing the food insecurity and food deserts and affordability,” Herring said.

The debate reflects a broader disagreement over how best to reform the food assistance program. Supporters say stricter regulations will reduce fraud and ensure benefits reach those most in need, while opponents argue that restrictions will burden low-income families who already face limited access to affordable food options in many Georgia communities.

Lawmakers indicated they will continue discussing the legislation at their next scheduled meeting. The outcome could affect thousands of Georgians who depend on food assistance programs to feed their families.

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