Wyoming Legislature Blocks Funding for SUN Bucks Summer Program

The Wyoming state legislature has once again failed to include funding for the SUN Bucks program in the proposed budget for the next two years. This program, initiated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in 2024, is designed to support families with low incomes by providing $40 per child each month during the summer to help cover food expenses when school lunches are not available.

Funding for the SUN Bucks program was crucial for many families, as it would have been loaded directly onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card for those who qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or similar income-based benefits. Despite advocacy efforts, Wyoming remains one of approximately a dozen states that have not opted into the program since its launch. A bill to participate in SUN Bucks was previously rejected during last year’s legislative session by a vote of 34 to 25.

Advocates for food security had urged lawmakers to approve state funding this budget session, which would have enabled access to matching federal funds. In his initial budget proposal submitted in November, Governor Mark Gordon requested $1.8 million for SUN Bucks. While the Senate retained this funding in its version of the budget, the House removed it. Ultimately, the proposed funding did not survive the budget reconciliation process.

Contentious Debate in the House

The discussion surrounding the SUN Bucks program sparked significant debate on the House floor. Some legislators voiced concerns about potential over-reliance on federal support. Representative Bob Davis (R-Baggs) championed the amendment to fund the program, stating, “SUN Bucks is intended to reach the children that are in most need. An estimated 32,000 children are eligible in Wyoming, and it’s based on the family’s income.” He emphasized that while community groups play a role in assisting families, the program would specifically support children facing food insecurity.

In contrast, Representative Scott Smith (R-Lingle) advocated against the measure, arguing that existing programs at food banks should suffice and stressing the importance of parental responsibility. “There’s an element of pride that comes when a parent can go to work, take care of their child, feed their child,” he said.

Representative Mike Yin (D-Jackson) countered this perspective by highlighting the inadequacies of current community programs. “Our community programs are saying they need help. They need us to provide this program to assist them because there’s more need than they can deal with,” he explained.

Community Action and Advocacy Efforts

The issue gained further visibility during the inaugural Wyoming Against Hunger Advocacy Day on February 24, 2024. Approximately fifty hunger relief advocates gathered at the Capitol for a day of action, which included a breakfast with First Lady Jennie Gordon and discussions about legislative priorities.

Kali McCrackin Goodenough, a food security policy advocate at the Food Bank of Wyoming, expressed her disappointment regarding some legislative comments opposing the program. “I don’t think that kids are learning political ideology based off food access. I think they’re learning that their parents are able to put food on their table for them, and I think $40 a month is not a luxury at the end of the day,” she stated.

With the final version of the budget now approved by both the House and Senate, Governor Gordon is expected to sign it into law shortly. As lawmakers continue to navigate the complexities of food assistance programs, advocates remain committed to finding solutions that address the urgent needs of families across Wyoming.

For those seeking food assistance, local pantries can be found through the Food Bank of Wyoming, and individuals can enroll in SNAP via the Wyoming Department of Family Services or by calling Wyoming 211 for additional resources.