The bill, H.B. No. 5243, aims to amend the Human Resources Code by adding a new section that prohibits the purchase of certain food and drink items using benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Specifically, recipients will be barred from using their benefits to buy energy drinks, sweetened beverages, carbonated beverages, candy, potato or corn chips, and cookies that are typically sold for immediate consumption without further preparation. The bill defines key terms such as "energy drink," "milk product," and "sweetened beverage" to clarify what items fall under these prohibitions.

However, the bill does allow for exceptions to this prohibition. Recipients may still purchase milk products, milk substitutes, certain low-calorie beverages, infant formula, weight reduction beverages, unsweetened fruit or vegetable juices, and other specified products that meet certain health criteria. The bill also includes a provision that allows state agencies to delay implementation of any part of the act until necessary federal waivers or authorizations are obtained. If passed, the act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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