At the Blount County Multi-Purpose Center today, Christina Woerner McInnis, candidate for Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, stood with poultry farmer Dennis Maze to spotlight a new proposal aimed at improving food access for Alabama families. The event came as Rep. Donna Givens announced legislation to allow SNAP recipients to purchase Alabama rotisserie chicken.

McInnis said the idea came from her conversations with farmers and families on the campaign trail. She explained, “I found there was a gap between our number one food commodity of poultry and the children in our state getting healthy, nutritious options through the SNAP program. Rotisserie chicken is a ready-to-eat, protein-rich food that working families depend on, but under current rules, it isn’t eligible for SNAP. That doesn’t make sense.”

She pointed to concerning statistics, noting that three out of four children on SNAP in Alabama are clinically obese and that 15 percent of the state’s population depends on the program. “We need solutions that give our children access to healthier options, not barriers that prevent them from eating the wholesome foods grown right here in Alabama,” McInnis added.

McInnis credited Maze and poultry industry groups for helping shape the proposal. “By listening to our farmers, our associations, and our families, we came together with a common-sense solution. Representative Donna Givens has now filed the waiver to make it happen — and I am thrilled to see Alabama’s leadership stepping up for our farmers and families.”

Maze, who has farmed chickens in Blount County for more than 50 years, said the measure would benefit both public health and the economy. “If we can get rotisserie chicken into the SNAP program, it’s a win-win for farmers and for families. There’s a great demand for poultry in this state and across the country. This is just common sense.”

In her statement, Rep. Givens explained her motivation for filing the bill. “Food security means more than just calories — it means dignity, nutrition, and choice. That’s why I introduced legislation to allow SNAP recipients to purchase rotisserie chicken and other prepared hot foods with their benefits. The current restrictions on SNAP make it difficult for families — especially those who are elderly, disabled, or working multiple jobs — to access ready-to-eat, nutritious meals. A rotisserie chicken may seem simple, but for many, it can mean the difference between a balanced dinner and going hungry. This bill is about common sense. If SNAP can be used to buy a cold chicken, there’s no reason it shouldn’t cover a hot one.”

Closing the event, McInnis emphasized the practical value. “One rotisserie chicken can feed a family of four for two meals. It can be used for casseroles, chicken salad, or simply served hot off the table. For many working families, that’s a lifeline. This bill is good for our farmers, good for our children, and good for Alabama.”