This bill introduces a new section to the Public Assistance Act that prohibits individuals receiving benefits from the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) from using those benefits to purchase sweetened drinks and candy. The legislation defines "candy" as any preparation containing sugar or sweeteners combined with various ingredients, and "sweetened drink" as a nonalcoholic beverage with five grams or more of added sugar or any amount of artificial sweeteners. However, it specifies that beverages containing milk, milk substitutes, or at least fifty percent vegetable or fruit juice by volume are exempt from this prohibition.

The intent of the bill is to promote healthier eating habits among SNAP recipients by restricting the purchase of items that are high in sugar and potentially detrimental to public health. By delineating clear definitions for candy and sweetened drinks, the bill aims to provide clarity on what items are restricted under the new law.