The bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 39-709 to empower the Secretary for Children and Families to seek a waiver from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to restrict the purchase of candy and soft drinks with food assistance benefits, promoting healthier choices among recipients. It also revises eligibility criteria for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), including stricter work participation requirements, penalties for non-cooperation, and disqualification conditions for individuals with felony convictions or fraud. The legislation further prohibits the use of TANF cash assistance for items like alcohol and tobacco, and it introduces measures to prevent fraud, such as potentially placing photographs on benefits cards.

Additionally, the bill mandates monitoring of benefits card replacement requests and outlines eligibility for child care subsidies, considering cohabiting partners' income and establishing employment requirements. It imposes stricter work requirements for able-bodied adults receiving food assistance, limits benefits to three months within a 36-month period unless specific criteria are met, and prohibits the DCF from requesting waivers for time-limited assistance. The bill also includes provisions for drug screening of cash assistance applicants and recipients, establishing a framework for testing and consequences for positive results, while permanently disqualifying individuals with certain felony drug convictions from receiving cash assistance. Overall, the bill aims to enhance compliance and streamline the recovery of medical assistance costs while promoting responsible spending among public assistance beneficiaries.

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