Why would there be a GFI outlet in the kitchen? Is this a new code
requirement? When I built my house in the late 70s all that was needed
was the usual double 15 amp outlet, with seperate breakers for the
upper and the lower outlet in a duplex receptacle. I haven't heard of
any change.

Currently kitchens require 2-20a circuits, both GFCI protected.

We should get in the habit of saying if we are US or Canada. The laws differ in
the kitchen.