A bipartisan group of US senators has introduced legislation to allow the purchase of rotisserie chickens through the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. The proposed 'Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act' would update current rules that prohibit SNAP funds from being used for hot, prepared foods.
Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, a co-sponsor, highlighted the affordability of Costco's $4.99 rotisserie chicken, calling it 'America’s best (and delicious) affordability play.' He added that SNAP funds would be 'well spent to feed our nation’s families who need it.' Republican Senator Jim Justice of West Virginia, another sponsor, argued that the change would give families 'a healthy, protein-dense choice that actually tastes good and doesn’t take an hour and a half to cook.'
The decades-old exclusion of hot prepared foods was originally intended to promote home cooking, but critics say it is outdated and penalises struggling families by denying them convenient and nutritious options. SNAP currently assists nearly 42 million Americans, with an average monthly benefit of about $350 per household.
The bill is also sponsored by Republican Senator Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia and Democratic Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado. In the House, Republican Representative Rick Crawford of Arkansas is championing similar legislation. The debate over SNAP eligibility continues, with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pressing states to exclude 'junk food' such as soda and candy.
