HB4539 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

LRB102 22821 KTG 31971 b

102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY
State of Illinois
2021 and 2022
HB4539

Introduced 1/21/2022, by Rep. David A. Welter

SYNOPSIS AS INTRODUCED:

305 ILCS 5/12-4.56 new

Amends the Illinois Public Aid Code. Requires the Department of Human Services to prohibit a LINK cardholder from using his or her cash assistance benefits to purchase energy drinks. Requires the Department to apply for any federal waivers or approvals, if required, to implement the amendatory Act. Grants the Department rulemaking authority upon receipt of federal approval to implement the prohibition on energy drinks.

A BILL FOR

AN ACT concerning public aid.

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois, represented in the General Assembly:

Section 5. The Illinois Public Aid Code is amended by adding Section 12-4.56 as follows:

(305 ILCS 5/12-4.56 new)

Sec. 12-4.56. LINK card; prohibited purchases; energy drinks.

(a) As used in this Section:

"Energy drink" means a beverage containing at least 65 milligrams of caffeine per 8 fluid ounces that is advertised as being specifically designed to provide metabolic stimulation or an increase to the consumer's mental or physical energy. The term does not include coffee or any substantially coffee-based beverage.

"LINK card" means an electronic benefits transfer card issued by the Department of Human Services for the purpose of enabling a user of the card to obtain SNAP benefits or cash.

(b) The Department of Human Services shall prohibit a LINK cardholder from using his or her cash assistance benefits to purchase energy drinks. The Department shall apply for any federal waivers or approvals, if required, to implement this Section. Upon federal approval, the Department may adopt any rules necessary to implement this Section.