LITTLE ROCK, AR (WCMH) — The state of Arkansas is considering banning people from purchasing junk food using food stamps.

The Republican backed proposal would prohibit people from using food stamps to buy junk food. If passed, it would call on the state Department of Human Services to specify what exactly qualifies as junk food.

The bill was filed by Representative Mary Bentley, who says she’d like to see items like soft drinks, candy bars and potato chips no longer allowed for purchase using food stamps.

“We want to encourage folks to get things that they can take home and make a meal for their families,” Rep. Bentley told NBC affiliate WMC-TV.

Some people who are on food stamps don’t like the idea, saying it should be up to the consumer.

“If you feel like you need to lose weight, then buy you some carrots, some broccoli, but if not, then have at it. It’s your life,” said Richard Thomas, who uses food stamps to feed his family.

Bentley says the proposal isn’t about limiting people’s choices. Instead, she claims its about tackling the state’s obesity problem.

Arkansas is the sixth-most obese state in the country and currently spends $1.25 billion tax dollars on obesity related care, WMC-TV reports. Bentley believes limiting junk food could help lower the obesity rate, saving the state money.