"New Jersey Healthy SNAP Act"; requires DHS to submit waiver to federal government to prohibit purchase of soft drinks with SNAP benefits.

New Jersey's S 941, the "Healthy SNAP Act," requires the Department of Human Services (DHS) to request a federal waiver allowing the state to prohibit SNAP benefit purchases of soft drinks. The bill defines "soft drink" as non-alcoholic beverages with added sweeteners (excluding milk alternatives and drinks with over 50% juice). DHS must submit a waiver request within 90 days, including a public health justification, an implementation plan for retail systems, outreach to SNAP recipients about healthy alternatives, and a tracking system for spending and health impacts. If approved, the restriction would take effect within six months; if denied, DHS must resubmit annually. The bill directly affects SNAP recipients in New Jersey who use benefits for soft drinks.