(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana will not participate in the federal SUN Bucks food assistance program in 2026, citing a lack of funding to operate it.
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration says the state would need an additional $5 to $7 million to administer the program. FSSA Secretary Mitch Roob said Indiana is already facing shortfalls in funding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
SUN Bucks, also known as Summer EBT, provides $120 per eligible child to help families buy groceries during the summer when school meals are unavailable. Indiana participated in the program in 2024, helping feed more than 600,000 Hoosier children.
Advocacy groups say the program offers significant benefits for a relatively small state investment and supports both families and grocery retailers, particularly in rural areas. They continue to urge state leaders to reconsider participation.
Indiana also opted out of the program for 2025, previously citing administrative readiness concerns.
The decision comes as new restrictions on SNAP purchases are set to take effect January 1, 2026. Under an executive order signed by Governor Mike Braun, SNAP benefits will no longer be allowed for candy and sugary drinks. State officials say the change is intended to improve health outcomes, while food banks and retailers have raised concerns about confusion at checkout and added strain on low-income families.