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HB 2396

SNAP; allowed purchases; waiver

57th Legislature - Second Regular Session Introduced by Hildy Angius and 6 co-sponsors

Arizona bill to request federal waiver expanding SNAP-eligible purchases was vetoed by Governor, blocking the expansion attempt.

Vetoed by Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2396

Legislative bill overview

HB 2396 would have allowed Arizona to request a federal waiver to expand what items can be purchased with SNAP benefits (food stamps). The bill was passed by the Arizona legislature but was vetoed by the Governor on February 20, 2026, preventing it from becoming law.

Why is this important

SNAP benefits are currently restricted to specific food items under federal rules. Any expansion of allowable purchases could affect both program costs and food security outcomes, depending on which items would be newly permitted. The Governor's veto means Arizona will continue operating under existing federal SNAP guidelines.

Potential points of contention

  • Program scope and cost: Expanding allowable purchases could increase overall program spending, raising concerns about fiscal impact and sustainability
  • Nutritional outcomes: Disagreement over whether expanding eligible items would improve or undermine public health goals, depending on which products are added
  • Federal compliance: Questions about whether Arizona's proposed waiver request would align with or conflict with federal SNAP program objectives and approval likelihood

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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