This bill proposes to amend current statutes by adding a new section to the Arizona Revised Statutes that specifically addresses the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The Director of the Department of Economic Security would be required to request a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to exclude soda from SNAP benefits. If the waiver is granted, the Director would then prohibit SNAP enrollees from using their benefits to purchase soda. In the event that the waiver is not granted, the Director must continue to request it annually until approval is obtained.

Additionally, the bill defines "soda" as any carbonated beverage containing more than one gram of added sugar or any artificial sweetener. This new language would be inserted into the existing statutes, thereby updating the legal framework governing SNAP in Arizona to include these specific provisions regarding soda purchases.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 46-232
House Engrossed Version: 46-232