CA AB2171

Prohibits CalFresh (California's SNAP program) recipients from using benefits to purchase sweetened drinks or candy

Defines "sweetened drink" as nonalcoholic water-based beverages containing 5+ grams of added sugar or any artificial sweeteners, excluding milk products, milk substitutes, and beverages with more than 50% fruit/vegetable juice

Defines "candy" as candy ordinarily packaged and sold for consumption without further preparation

Requires the State Department of Social Services to request a federal waiver from USDA if necessary, with implementation potentially delayed until federal approval is granted

Extends the same purchasing restrictions to the California Food Assistance Program (CFAP), which serves eligible noncitizens, to the extent permissible under federal law