KY SB265

Kentucky cabinet must request a USDA waiver by November 30, 2026 to prohibit SNAP purchases of "accessory foods" including candy, soft drinks, and specialty coffee drinks (beverages under 16 oz with 20+ grams of sugar or artificial sweeteners)

Cabinet must also request a USDA waiver by November 30, 2026 to allow SNAP benefits to purchase hot foods (meat, poultry, fish) from grocery stores, which are currently excluded under federal rules

"Soft drinks" excludes beverages containing milk/milk substitutes or more than 50% vegetable or fruit juice; "candy" excludes items containing flour or requiring refrigeration

Cabinet must provide three updates to the Interim Joint Committee on Health Services for each waiver: at drafting start, when substantially complete, and after submission to USDA

If waivers are denied, the General Assembly may instruct the secretary to resubmit modified waiver applications per KRS 205.525