House passes SNAP junk food ban; Democrats blast 'hypocrisy'

TOPEKA — Kansas moved a step closer Thursday to restricting what residents can buy with food assistance, as the House passed HB 2738 on a 72-50 vote. The measure directs the secretary for children and families to seek a federal waiver from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to prohibit the purchase of candy and soft drinks with SNAP benefits.

The vote split almost entirely along party lines, with Republicans in favor and Democrats opposed. Several Democrats filed pointed explanations of vote. Rep. Nikki McDonald, D-Topeka, called the measure hypocritical, noting reports that legislators had recently requested a snack bar closer to the House chamber. "Look in the mirror, my friends, and make better choices," McDonald wrote. Rep. Brooklynne Mosley, D-Wichita, offered a personal reflection, saying her father grew up poor on government rations and that sweets were a luxury. "People whose children go to fancy schools and have a life beyond just need, are telling poor people that they can't even buy their kid a candy bar if they got an A on their report card," Mosley wrote, joined by Reps. Alexis Simmons, D-Overland Park; Ford Carr, D-Wichita; Sydney Carlin, D-Topeka; Tobias Schlingensiepen, D-Topeka; and Kirk Haskins, D-Topeka.

The bill reflects a conservative priority around public benefit oversight that has gained traction in several Republican-led statehouses. It requires federal approval to take effect.

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