If enacted, this bill would amend current statutes by adding a new section to Title 46, Chapter 2, Article 2 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. The new provisions would require the Director of the Department of Economic Security to request a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to exclude soda from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). If the waiver is granted, the Director would then prohibit SNAP enrollees from using their benefits to purchase soda. Additionally, if the waiver is not granted, the Director would be mandated to request a waiver annually until approval is obtained.

The bill also introduces a definition of "soda," specifying it as a carbonated beverage containing more than one gram of added sugar or any artificial sweetener. These changes aim to regulate the types of beverages that can be purchased with SNAP benefits, thereby promoting healthier choices among program participants.

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