This bill proposes amendments to the food stamp program in Alaska by removing soft drinks from the list of eligible food items. Specifically, it amends AS 47.25.990(2) to exclude "soft drinks" from the definition of "food," which already excludes alcoholic beverages and tobacco. Additionally, the bill introduces a new definition for "soft drink" in AS 47.25.990(5), specifying that it refers to nonalcoholic beverages containing sweeteners, while excluding beverages that contain milk, milk substitutes, or a significant amount of vegetable or fruit juice.

Furthermore, the bill outlines a process for obtaining federal approval for these changes. The Department of Health is tasked with requesting any necessary waivers from the United States Department of Agriculture to implement the amendments. The provisions of the bill will only take effect if the waiver is approved or deemed unnecessary by July 1, 2027. The commissioner of health is required to notify the revisor of statutes once the waiver status is determined.

Statutes affected:
SB0186A, AM SB 186, introduced 04/25/2025: 47.25.990