By: Morgan Chilson
Kansas Reflector
In a significant policy shift, Kansas is set to restrict the purchase of sugary drinks and candy through food assistance programs. Starting in 2027, recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will no longer be able to use their benefits for these items, as announced by Governor Laura Kelly.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved a waiver for the Kansas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
The state will join 21 others that have implemented similar restrictions on candy and soda purchases using SNAP funds, as highlighted by Kelly in her announcement. Though she initially vetoed the law mandating the waiver, her decision was overturned by the Republican supermajorities in the Legislature.
While the governor expressed her support for promoting healthier eating habits, she urged the USDA to devise a strategy that alleviates the “confusion and uncertainty” faced by retailers and recipients alike.
Kelly noted that there has been widespread confusion regarding what products are classified as candy or soda. Items that individuals typically associate with candy may not fit the legal definition, leading to challenges in other states. For instance, in Louisiana, soda sweetened with cane sugar is permitted.
The waiver for Kansas is set to take effect on February 15, 2027, and will adhere to definitions established within the state’s food and sales tax regulations:
- “Candy is defined as a preparation of sugar, honey, or other natural or artificial sweeteners combined with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or additional ingredients or flavorings, presented in the form of bars, drops, or pieces. Candy excludes any preparation containing flour and does not require refrigeration.
- “Soft drink beverages are characterized as nonalcoholic drinks containing natural or artificial sweeteners. Beverages made with milk or milk products, soy, rice, or other similar substitutes, as well as those containing more than 50% vegetable or fruit juice by volume, are not classified as soft drinks.”
Implementing this waiver requires careful planning, including the dissemination of information to retailers and recipients, alongside a thorough evaluation, monitoring, and compliance process. The Kansas Department for Families and Children is currently seeking a contractor to assist with the implementation.
“Kansas is now part of the MAHA (Make American Healthy Again) movement,” communicated Senate President Ty Masterson in a press release.
MAHA is a movement spearheaded by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. aimed at tackling the chronic disease epidemic and promoting healthier eating patterns.
House Speaker Dan Hawkins regarded the waiver’s approval as a “significant step toward ensuring taxpayer-funded food assistance programs prioritize nutrition and align with the original intent of the program.”
“I’m pleased to see progress on this waiver,” he remarked. “Supporting those in need is important, but it makes sense for taxpayer dollars spent on food assistance to focus on real nutrition instead of soda and candy.”
Key Takeaways
- Kansas will prohibit candy and soda purchases with SNAP benefits starting February 15, 2027.
- The USDA approved a waiver for this initiative, responding to a legislative mandate.
- Kansas joins 21 other states in implementing similar restrictions.
- Definitions for candy and soda are outlined in the state’s food and sales tax laws.
- Communication and compliance strategies will be developed for retailers and SNAP recipients.
- The initiative is tied to the larger MAHA movement aimed at promoting healthy eating.
FAQ
What items are banned from purchase under the new SNAP regulations in Kansas?
Candy and soft drinks will be prohibited for purchase with SNAP benefits beginning in 2027.
When will the new restrictions take effect?
The restrictions are set to go into effect on February 15, 2027.
Why were these restrictions put in place?
The aim is to promote healthier eating habits among individuals utilizing food assistance programs.
