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Stop Subsidizing Childhood Obesity Act

12/16/2022, 2:02 PM

Summary of Bill HR 9299

Bill 117 HR 9299, also known as the Stop Subsidizing Childhood Obesity Act, aims to address the issue of childhood obesity by targeting government subsidies that contribute to unhealthy eating habits. The bill specifically focuses on subsidies for crops such as corn, soybeans, wheat, and sugar, which are often used in the production of unhealthy processed foods.

The bill proposes to redirect these subsidies towards fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods, in order to promote better nutrition and combat the rising rates of childhood obesity in the United States. By incentivizing the production and consumption of healthier foods, the bill seeks to improve the overall health and well-being of children across the country.

Supporters of the bill argue that reducing subsidies for unhealthy crops will help to shift the food system towards more nutritious options, ultimately leading to a decrease in childhood obesity rates. They believe that by making healthy foods more affordable and accessible, families will be more likely to make healthier choices for themselves and their children. Opponents of the bill, however, raise concerns about the potential impact on farmers who rely on subsidies for their livelihood. They argue that cutting subsidies for certain crops could have negative economic consequences for farmers and the agricultural industry as a whole. Overall, the Stop Subsidizing Childhood Obesity Act represents a significant effort to address the complex issue of childhood obesity through targeted policy changes. As the bill moves through the legislative process, it will be important for lawmakers to carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of redirecting government subsidies towards healthier food options.

Congressional Summary of HR 9299

Stop Subsidizing Childhood Obesity Act

This bill denies a tax deduction for advertising or marketing directed at children (age 14 or under) for food of poor nutritional quality or a brand primarily associated with food of poor nutritional quality. The bill also denies a deduction for related expenses, including:

  • travel;
  • goods or services constituting entertainment, amusement, or recreation;
  • gifts; or
  • other promotion expenses.

The Department of the Treasury must enter into a contract with the National Academy of Medicine to develop procedures to evaluate and identify food of poor nutritional quality and brands that are primarily associated with such food.

The bill authorizes additional funding to carry out the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act.

Current Status of Bill HR 9299

Bill HR 9299 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since November 15, 2022. Bill HR 9299 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on November 15, 2022.  Bill HR 9299's most recent activity was Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Education and Labor, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. as of November 15, 2022

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 9299

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 9299

Primary Policy Focus

Taxation

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 9299

Stop Subsidizing Childhood Obesity Act
Stop Subsidizing Childhood Obesity Act
To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to protect children's health by denying any deduction for advertising and marketing directed at children to promote the consumption of food of poor nutritional quality.

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