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Committee adopts substitutes but ultimately holds HB 569 to allow more stakeholder work on SNAP restrictions

Utah House Health and Human Services Committee · February 20, 2026
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Summary

Lawmakers debated HB 569, which would tie SNAP purchase rules to a federal definition of 'ultra‑processed' foods. The committee adopted a substitute and extended DWS rulemaking to 180 days, but after concerns about equity, retailer burden and implementation the committee voted to hold the bill for further work.

Representative Chevrier presented a substitute for House Bill 569 that would make Utah’s SNAP implementation contingent on a federal definition of "ultra‑processed foods" and give the Department of Workforce Services (DWS) rulemaking authority to implement that definition for SNAP. The sponsor said the substitute does not cut SNAP funding but would allow the state to prioritize healthier purchases if a federal definition is issued.

Committee members raised equity and practical concerns. Rep. Hollins warned that restricting purchases could stigmatize SNAP recipients and asked…

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