SB265
Log in to followAN ACT relating to nourishment and choice in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
Amend KRS 205.1783 to define terms; require the secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to request a waiver from the United States Department of Agriculture to exclude accessory foods such as candy, soft drinks, and specialty coffee drinks from being purchased using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, also known as SNAP; require the request to be resubmitted as instructed by the General Assembly; require the cabinet to request a waiver from the United States Department of Agriculture to allow the purchase of hot foods utilizing SNAP benefits; require the request be resubmitted as instructed by the General Assembly; specify waiver development and reporting requirements.
Introduced: February 26, 2026
Last action: February 26, 2026
Plain-language summary
This bill would require Kentucky officials to ask the federal government for permission to change what can be bought with SNAP food assistance benefits. Specifically, it seeks to block the use of SNAP funds for items like candy, soft drinks, and specialty coffee drinks, while also seeking to allow SNAP funds to be used to purchase hot prepared foods, which is currently not permitted. Because federal approval is required for these changes, the bill directs the state to formally request waivers and report back on the process. Who it may affect: Kentuckians who receive SNAP benefits and the retailers where those benefits are spent.
Legislative History
Primary Sponsor
