California AB2171 prohibits CalFresh recipients from using benefits to buy sweetened drinks and candy, except at restaurants.

California AB2171 adds a new section to the Welfare and Institutions Code, prohibiting CalFresh recipients from using their benefits to purchase sweetened drinks and candy, except when bought at restaurants. The State Department of Social Services must request a waiver or authorization from the United States Department of Agriculture if necessary for implementation. The bill defines "candy" as items packaged and sold for immediate consumption and "sweetened drink" as nonalcoholic beverages with added sugar or artificial sweeteners, excluding certain milk and juice products.

California AB2171 prohibits CalFresh recipients from using benefits to buy sweetened drinks and candy, except at restaurants.

California AB2171 adds a new section to the Welfare and Institutions Code, prohibiting CalFresh recipients from using their benefits to purchase sweetened drinks and candy, except when bought at restaurants. The State Department of Social Services must request a waiver or authorization from the United States Department of Agriculture if necessary for implementation. The bill defines "candy" as items packaged and sold for immediate consumption and "sweetened drink" as nonalcoholic beverages with added sugar or artificial sweeteners, excluding certain milk and juice products.