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

HB 4970 would prohibit Texas SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients from using benefits to purchase specific items, directly affecting individuals relying on SNAP for food assistance. The bill bans energy drinks, sweetened beverages (like soda), carbonated drinks, candy, potato/corn chips, and packaged cookies. Key exceptions include milk products, milk substitutes (e.g., almond milk), unsweetened juices, infant formula, and fortified protein products (e.g., vitamin-fortified protein drinks). This policy change would take effect if the bill is enacted, modifying SNAP purchasing rules under Texas law.