TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – Kansans will soon see changes to their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, as candy and soft drinks will be excluded from purchase with these funds. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote healthier eating habits among residents of the state.
According to Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, the new waiver, approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), will take effect on February 15, 2027. This exemption specifically excludes all candy and soda beverages (soft drinks) from the list of eligible food items for SNAP purchases, as defined under 7 CFR 271.2.
“Today, Kansas joins 21 other states in implementing restrictions on candy and soda purchases with SNAP dollars,” Kelly stated. “I have always supported policies that incentivize healthy eating, including eliminating the state sales tax on food to allow Kansans to save more of their money. Moving forward, I encourage the USDA to create a nationwide eligibility strategy that minimizes confusion for both retailers and recipients.”
As outlined in a recent press release, the definitions of candy and soda are based on Kansas’s food and sales tax laws:
- Candy is defined as a preparation of sugar, honey, or other sweeteners combined with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or other ingredients or flavorings, presented in forms such as bars, drops, or pieces. Candy excludes any preparation containing flour and does not require refrigeration.
- Soft drink beverages are defined as nonalcoholic drinks containing natural or artificial sweeteners. This category excludes beverages made with milk or milk substitutes, soy, rice, or those that contain more than 50% vegetable or fruit juice by volume.
The USDA recommended February 15, 2027, as the implementation date for this waiver, taking into account feedback from retailers in other states with similar restrictions. This timing is intended to avoid complications during the 2026 holiday season.
Governor Kelly noted that the Kansas SNAP Food Restriction Waiver comprises four comprehensive plans. These plans aim to ensure effective communication with SNAP Food Assistance recipients and authorized retailers, along with thorough evaluation, monitoring, and compliance measures.
The Department for Children and Families (DCF) has issued a request for proposals (RFP), which closed on February 17, 2026. This RFP seeks a contracting partner to assist the DCF in managing the implementation of these plans. The received proposals are currently under review, and a contract is anticipated to be finalized by April 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Candy and soft drinks will no longer be eligible for SNAP purchases in Kansas starting February 15, 2027.
- Kansas joins 21 other states in enforcing these restrictions.
- The initiative aims to encourage healthier eating habits among SNAP recipients.
- The USDA provided a strategic implementation date to avoid holiday confusion for retailers and users.
- The SNAP Food Restriction Waiver includes plans for communication and compliance monitoring.
- A contracting partner for implementation was sought through an RFP process, with a contract expected by April 2026.
FAQ
What items will be excluded from SNAP purchases?
Candy and soft drinks will no longer be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
When will these changes take effect?
The changes will take effect on February 15, 2027.
Why is this decision being implemented?
The aim is to promote healthier eating habits among recipients of SNAP benefits.
How many states are implementing similar restrictions?
Kansas joins 21 other states that have already implemented restrictions on candy and soda purchases.
What measures are in place for compliance and monitoring?
The waiver includes detailed plans for communication, evaluation, and compliance monitoring for retailers and recipients.
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