The bill amends section 414.095 of the Florida Statutes regarding eligibility for temporary cash assistance. It removes the prohibition on awarding benefits to individuals with felony drug convictions for trafficking and eliminates specific requirements that such individuals must meet to receive benefits. The bill also modifies the language around eligibility, stating that applicants must meet the eligibility requirements but no longer mandates that individuals with felony drug convictions be denied benefits solely based on their conviction status.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that individuals convicted of drug felonies are not required to meet certain conditions previously outlined in the law, such as completing substance abuse treatment, to qualify for temporary cash assistance. The state opts out of federal provisions that restrict eligibility for temporary cash assistance and food assistance for individuals with controlled substance felony convictions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 331 Filed: 414.095