Topeka — A bill barring Kansans who use food benefits from buying soda and candy with the aid failed to move forward last week, while another bill passed that opponents said would stall state agencies’ ability to react to changes in assistance programs and intellectual or developmental disability services.

Senate Bill 79, which would have stopped anyone from using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits to purchase soda and candy, died when the House failed to take up the bill to override Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto. The Senate voted to overturn the veto, 29 – 11.

Both chambers, however, voted along party lines to override the governor’s veto on House Bill 2240. Opponents expressed concerns that it would create obstacles for state agencies to move quickly in making needed changes in Medicaid, SNAP and other assistance programs. The bill requires legislative approval for any changes expanding eligibility for public assistance programs, increasing state costs or making certain changes for individuals receiving IDD services. If the Legislature isn’t in session, decisions will be made by the Legislative Coordinating Council, which has 14 days to act.