NO USE OF SNAP FOR SOFT DRINKS & CANDY

SB 186 prohibits New Mexico SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) beneficiaries from using federal benefits to purchase sweetened drinks or candy. The bill defines "candy" as sugar-based products (like bars or pieces) and "sweetened drink" as nonalcoholic beverages with 5g+ added sugar or artificial sweeteners (excluding milk, soy milk, or drinks with 50%+ fruit/vegetable juice). It directly affects SNAP recipients in New Mexico who would no longer be able to use benefits for these specific items. The bill amends the Public Assistance Act to implement this restriction, pending further legislative action.