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House approves resolution asking feds to allow Kansas to bar candy and sweetened drinks on SNAP cards
Summary
The House voted to request a waiver from the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that would let Kansas prohibit purchase of candy and sugary beverages with SNAP benefits; proponents cited public health and long‑term health care costs, opponents said the change stigmatizes people on assistance.
TOPEKA — The Kansas House voted to direct the state to seek a federal waiver that would prohibit the purchase of candy and soft drinks using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
Representative Linda Bergkamp, the bill carrier, framed the proposal as a nutrition policy aimed at encouraging healthier purchases with public benefits. “When you look at the name, SNAP, a lot of it is pointed towards assistance for those who need a little extra help,” Bergkamp said, adding that the state should encourage food choices consistent with dietary guidance.
Proponents cited health research linking sugary beverages and ultra‑processed snacks to obesity and diabetes and argued the policy would reduce future health care costs. Representative Bauercamp referenced a Stanford study cited in committee estimating large population health benefits if sugary drinks were restricted in SNAP purchases.
Opponents said the policy would single out low‑income people and deny small pleasures — a candy bar or soda — that can be meaningful in constrained household budgets. Representative Alkala and others described how small treats matter for children and families with limited means. Representative Carrie Mosley said the proposal felt like a punitive control on people who are already struggling.
Retail and implementation questions also surfaced. The bill’s carrier said the change would rely on retail point‑of‑sale systems to block prohibited items; opponents noted potential burdens for small stores and the administrative complexity of defining which products would be covered.
The House adopted the measure on final action with a recorded vote of 65 yeas and 58 nays.
What happens next: The law directs the state secretary for children and families to request the federal waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. If the federal government approves, Kansas would implement purchase restrictions via SNAP vendor and card systems; if the waiver is denied, the status quo remains in place.
