This bill mandates the Department of Health and Human Services to submit a waiver to the U.S. Department of Agriculture by January 1, 2027, aimed at prohibiting the purchase of sweetened drinks and candy using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The new section, RSA 167:17-e, outlines that the waiver request must exclude sweetened drinks and candy from the definition of eligible foods under SNAP, propose implementation methods, establish an education program for SNAP recipients, and include an evaluation plan to assess the impact on nutrition and health outcomes.

Additionally, the bill requires the commissioner of the Department of Health and Human Services to adopt rules for implementation upon federal approval of the waiver and to notify participating retailers of the new restrictions. An annual report detailing the status of the waiver request, implementation progress, and data on purchasing patterns and health indicators among SNAP recipients must be submitted starting November 1, 2026. The definitions of "sweetened drink" and "candy" are also provided, clarifying what items are included and excluded under the proposed restrictions. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.