SNAP; prohibited purchases; waiver

HB 2165 requires Arizona's Department of Economic Security to seek a federal waiver from the USDA to prohibit SNAP (food stamp) benefits from being used to purchase candy, soft drinks, or similar sugary items. If approved, SNAP recipients in Arizona would be barred from buying these items with their benefits; if denied, the state must reapply annually until granted. The bill defines "candy" as sugar-based treats and "soft drinks" as non-alcoholic sweetened beverages (excluding milk-based drinks or those with over 50% juice). This legislation aims to modify Arizona's SNAP program participation under federal rules without changing current federal policy.