The U.S. Department of Agriculture approves the Kansas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP Food Restriction Waiver.

 

The approved waiver excludes all candy and soft drinks from the definition of eligible foods that can be purchased with SNAP benefits. The restriction will go into effect on February 15, 2027.

 

During the approval process USDA recommended the implementation date of next year based on feedback from retailers in other states that have similar approved waivers and avoids concerns with implementing restrictions over and through the 2026 holiday season.

 

“Today, Kansas joins 21 other states in implementing restrictions on candy and soda purchases with SNAP dollars,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I have always supported policies that incentivize healthy eating, including axing the state sales tax on food to put more money back in Kansans’ pockets. Going forward, I would encourage the USDA to develop a nationwide eligibility strategy to reduce confusion and uncertainty for retailers and recipients alike.”