The bill, H.B. No. 4970, proposes amendments to the Human Resources Code to prohibit the purchase of specific food and drink items using benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). New provisions define terms such as "energy drink," "milk product," and "sweetened beverage," and outline the items that cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. These items include energy drinks, sweetened beverages, carbonated beverages, candy, potato or corn chips, and cookies that are typically sold for immediate consumption without preparation.

However, the bill allows exceptions for certain products, including milk products, milk substitutes, beverages with non-caloric sweeteners, infant formula, weight reduction beverages, and specific fruit or vegetable juices. The bill also stipulates that if a state agency requires a waiver or authorization from a federal agency to implement any part of the act, it may delay implementation until such approval is obtained. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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