WASHINGTON — The House of Representatives has approved the Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2026, advancing legislation that includes several provisions directly affecting convenience retailers, particularly those related to SNAP and payment systems.
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A major win for the convenience channel is the bill’s permanent ban on Electronic Benefit Transfer processing fees. The measure, long backed by the National Association of Convenience Stores, removes a cost burden on retailers that has been in effect since 2018. The bill also makes the SNAP online purchasing pilot permanent, reinforcing the growing role of digital transactions in the c-store space.
Fraud prevention is another key focus. The legislation directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture to transition to EBT chip cards nationwide, a move intended to reduce benefit theft and skimming, both of which have increasingly affected retailers and consumers alike.
Lawmakers rejected a proposal to ban nationwide SNAP purchases of soda, a position strongly opposed by retail and fuel trade groups, citing operational complexity and ongoing state-level testing. Meanwhile, broader efforts to expand SNAP eligibility for hot prepared foods stalled, though a narrower provision allowing purchases of rotisserie chicken was approved.
Separate provisions tied to year-round E15 fuel sales were removed for consideration as standalone legislation later this month.
The bill now moves to the Senate, where further debate is expected. Industry groups continue to push for provisions that support operational efficiency and consumer access in convenience retail.
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