MESSAGES FROM THE GOVERNOR

Senate Bill No. 79

An Act concerning public assistance; relating to food assistance; directing the secretary for children and families to request a waiver from the supplemental nutrition assistance program that would allow the state to prohibit purchase of candy and soft drinks with food assistance; amending K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 39-709 and repealing the existing sections.

Message to the Legislature of the State of Kansas:

This bill is simply wrong. Not only would it make it more difficult for Kansans to access the food they need to feed their families, it would also harm Kansas businesses.

The waiver required by this bill is confusing and will cause problems for our grocers and small businesses. Under the definition in that waiver, Kansas businesses would be mandated to stop accepting food assistance benefits for protein bars, trail mix, and other food products many would consider “healthy.” Meanwhile, items like Twix, Kit Kat, and Twizzlers would still be eligible for purchase using food assistance benefits. It’s nonsensical.

I support the idea that Kansans should eat healthier. However, changes to the SNAP food assistance program should be made at the federal level, not on a patchwork, state-by-state basis.

Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 79.

Laura Kelly, Governor

Dated April 3, 2025.