Relating to prohibiting the purchase of certain food items under the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

HB 3188 prohibits Texas SNAP (food stamp) recipients from using benefits to buy sweetened beverages (like soda), candy, pre-packaged chips, and cookies. It directly affects SNAP recipients in Texas who would no longer be able to use their benefits for these specific items. Key exceptions include milk products (including plant-based milks), unsweetened fruit/vegetable juices, infant formula, and fortified protein products. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025, pending any required federal authorization.