The bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 39-709 to revise the eligibility criteria for assistance programs funded by federal moneys in Kansas. It specifies that assistance is available to needy individuals lacking sufficient income or resources for a reasonable standard of living, with eligibility determined by considering combined income for cohabiting partners. The bill introduces provisions regarding motor vehicles, exempting one vehicle from resource calculations while additional vehicles may be deemed nonexempt unless used for income generation. Stricter penalties for non-cooperation with work programs and child support services are established, detailing ineligibility periods for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits based on non-compliance. It also outlines conditions for individuals convicted of certain felonies related to controlled substances to regain eligibility for food assistance and mandates that TANF cash assistance cannot be used for specific purchases.

Additionally, the bill implements a drug screening program for cash assistance applicants and recipients, requiring screenings based on reasonable suspicion of unlawful substance use, with penalties for non-compliance. It designates protective payees for minor children if a parent or guardian is found ineligible due to a positive drug test. The bill permanently ineligibilizes individuals convicted of certain felony offenses related to controlled substances after July 1, 2013, unless it is their first conviction, in which case they will be ineligible for five years. The results of drug screenings will remain confidential, and the Secretary for Children and Families is authorized to create regulations for implementation. The bill repeals K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 39-709 and will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 39-709, 21-5701
As Amended by House Committee: 39-709, 21-5701