A bipartisan effort in the U.S. Senate to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to purchase hot rotisserie chicken is drawing attention in Arkansas, where state and federal leaders have already pushed for similar changes.
The proposal, known as the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act, would amend the 2008 Food and Nutrition Act to permit SNAP benefits to be used for hot rotisserie chicken. Current rules prohibit the purchase of hot prepared foods, allowing only items that are cooked but cooled.
While the Senate bill is led by lawmakers from outside Arkansas, it aligns with previous efforts by Rick Crawford, who has advocated for expanding SNAP flexibility.
Crawford emphasized the practicality of the proposal, noting that rotisserie chicken is both accessible and nutritious.
“Hot rotisserie chicken is healthy, widely available, popular in grocery stores, and aligns with the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans promoting nutrient-dense protein,” Crawford said in a statement.
Arkansas has already taken steps toward that goal. According to the National Chicken Council, Sarah Huckabee Sanders submitted a waiver request seeking to allow SNAP recipients in the state to purchase hot rotisserie chicken.
Supporters of the Senate bill say the change would help families who may lack access to cooking equipment or time to prepare meals. The legislation is narrowly tailored and would not expand SNAP funding or eligibility, nor would it allow all hot foods to be purchased.
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito said the measure is about improving access and convenience for those who rely on the program, particularly seniors and working families. Sen. Jim Justice described the proposal as a simple way to help families put meals on the table.
The bill also has bipartisan backing from lawmakers including Sen. John Fetterman and Sen. Michael Bennet.
A similar provision was previously included in a broader farm bill supported by Crawford but was later removed. Arkansas officials continue to advocate for the change as discussions over SNAP flexibility move forward at the federal level.
