Hailey
Kansas is moving closer to changing what people can buy with food stamps (SNAP benefits), especially when it comes to candy and soda.
Many families across the state are asking one important question: When will Kansas actually ban candy and soda from SNAP?
Here is the most accurate, up-to-date explanation of where things stand, what the law says, and what happens next.
What Is Kansas Planning To Do With SNAP?
Kansas lawmakers have approved a plan that directs the state to request a SNAP waiver from the federal government. This waiver would allow Kansas to remove candy and soft drinks from the list of SNAP-eligible foods.
SNAP is a federal program, which means states cannot change food eligibility rules on their own. Any restriction must first be approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Kansas is following that process.
The goal of the proposal is to encourage healthier food choices, reduce diet-related illnesses, and align SNAP spending with nutrition goals.
How Kansas Defines Candy And Soft Drinks
Kansas is not using vague or general meanings. The state relies on existing tax definitions, which are very specific.
- Candy is defined as a product made mainly of sugar, honey, or artificial sweeteners combined with chocolate, fruit, nuts, or flavorings. Candy does not contain flour, does not require refrigeration, and is typically sold in bars, drops, or pieces.
- Soft drinks are non-alcoholic beverages with natural or artificial sweeteners. Drinks containing milk or milk substitutes (such as soy or almond milk) are excluded. Beverages that are more than 50% fruit or vegetable juice are also excluded.
These definitions matter because they determine which items would be blocked at checkout if the waiver is approved.
Has Kansas Received Federal Approval?
As of now, Kansas has not received approval for its SNAP waiver.
State officials have confirmed that the waiver request was submitted to the federal government, but no final decision has been issued yet. Until approval is granted, Kansas cannot enforce any ban on candy or soda purchases using SNAP benefits.
Because approval is still pending, there is no official start date for the restriction.
When Could The Ban Actually Start?
The most accurate answer is simple:
Kansas will not ban candy and soda from SNAP until the waiver is approved and the state completes implementation.
State officials have explained that once approval is granted, Kansas may need up to 18 months to fully roll out the change. This time would be used to:
- Update EBT payment systems
- Adjust retailer checkout software
- Finalize product classifications
- Notify SNAP recipients and retailers
This means the ban would not take effect immediately, even after approval.
Key Information At A Glance
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Affected | SNAP (Food Stamps) |
| Items Targeted | Candy and Soft Drinks |
| Legal Requirement | Federal SNAP waiver approval |
| Current Status | Waiver submitted but not approved |
| Start Date | Not announced |
| Estimated Rollout | Up to 18 months after approval |
| Current Rules | Candy and soda are still allowed |
What This Means For SNAP Recipients Right Now
For now, nothing has changed for Kansas SNAP households. Recipients can continue to buy foods that are currently eligible under existing SNAP rules, including candy and soft drinks.
If the waiver is approved in the future, Kansas is expected to provide advance notice, clear guidance, and a transition period before enforcement begins.
Kansas is actively working to ban candy and soda from SNAP benefits, but the change has not happened yet. The state is still waiting for federal approval, and even after approval, implementation could take many months. As of today, there is no confirmed date for when the restriction will begin. Until then, SNAP rules in Kansas remain the same.