Wyoming House defeats 'Sunbucks' summer EBT amendment after hours of debate
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Summary
On Feb. 18 the House voted down amendment 51 to HB1, which would have funded administration of a summer EBT 'Sunbucks' program benefiting an estimated 32,000 eligible children with $120 per child. Debate split lawmakers over food insecurity, program design and concerns about dependency.
The Wyoming House on Feb. 18 rejected an amendment to House Bill 1 that would have funded administration of a summer EBT "Sunbucks" benefit, after several hours of floor debate on food insecurity, program design and ideological objections.
Representative James Davis introduced amendment 51, saying the Sunbucks program supports roughly 32,000 eligible children with approximately $120 per child for the summer and that administration costs are split about 50/50 in federal and state funding. Davis called the program "very important to the state of Wyoming" and emphasized its role in rural areas where summer meal sites are scarce: "There are roughly 32,000 eligible children that use this program." (SEG 863–885)
Representative Chestick, speaking in favor, explained that the appropriation under debate funds administration only and that the federal government pays the benefits. She said the state certifies eligible families and administers a card (described informally as a Sunbuck or EBT card) that operates under SNAP purchase restrictions. Chestick said administrative spending yields an estimated four-to-one return in benefits to families.
Opponents argued the program fosters dependency and raised concerns about misuse. Representative Harrelson warned against teaching children dependency and said, "When we give that ... what are we teaching our kids when we give them a card ... we're teaching from a young age that this is socialism." Other members worried about dietary choices and long-term fiscal effects.
Supporters framed the proposal as a narrow, targeted response to seasonal food insecurity in communities where schools cannot provide summer meals, noting education materials and waivers to restrict sugary purchases. Representative Feiler said the $120 benefit amounts to less than $2 a day over the summer and urged colleagues to focus on the children who would benefit.
The chief clerk recorded the roll call on amendment 51 as 26 aye, 34 no, 2 excused; the speaker announced the House chose not to adopt the amendment. The House proceeded to recess until 10 a.m., and committees announced upcoming hearings.
What happens next: The Sunbucks administration funding in amendment 51 was not adopted on the floor. The program's future will depend on subsequent proposals, committee consideration and whether advocates resubmit or rework administrative funding language.