House clears SNAP changes after floor debate over rulemaking authority

The Arizona House passed House Bill 22 06 on Feb. 12, 2026, a measure amending Title 46, Chapter 2, Article 2 of the Arizona Revised Statutes related to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Representative Kupperer, the bill sponsor in floor remarks, said the measure "does not grant any new rule making authority. Rather, it acknowledges the existing rule making authority that is already there," and recorded an aye vote. By contrast, Representative Collin said he could not support the measure because, in his view, it "authorizes rule making which is always unconstitutional," and therefore cast a no vote.

Several members explained their votes on policy and equity grounds. Representative Aguilar called it "hypocritical" to regulate SNAP recipients while the legislature accepts free sugary drinks in the Capitol, telling colleagues, "If we want to talk about regulating people on SNAP, we should also act... and get rid of the soda machines." Members representing districts with food deserts, including Representatives Alma Hernandez and Consuelo Hernandez, warned the bill would limit choices for low-income households and could worsen access to calories needed by families.

Supporters framed the bill as promoting nutrition and reinforcing program integrity; Representative Pamela Carter cited her health and fitness background and said, "No one deserves fruit loops, or cupcakes, or ice cream," characterizing some restricted items as lacking nutritional value.

The clerk recorded the vote on HB2206 as 33 ayes and 25 nays; the speaker announced the bill had passed and instructed the clerk to convey it to the Senate.

The debate combined constitutional questions about delegation of authority with policy disagreements over food access, program incentives and alternative investments such as produce-incentive programs.