This bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 39-709 to allow individuals with felony drug convictions to access the supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) by removing the permanent disqualification for those convicted of certain felony offenses related to controlled substances. The new legal language specifies that individuals shall not be denied food assistance solely based on a drug-related felony conviction. Additionally, the bill simplifies the eligibility process by allowing individuals to regain access to food assistance by participating in drug treatment programs and passing drug tests, while removing previous requirements related to drug treatment participation.

The bill also introduces stricter work requirements for able-bodied adults aged 18 to 49 receiving food assistance, limiting their eligibility to three months within a 36-month period unless they meet specific work criteria. It establishes a program for drug screening applicants and recipients of cash assistance based on reasonable suspicion of unlawful substance use, with consequences for positive tests. Furthermore, individuals convicted of certain felony offenses related to controlled substances after July 1, 2013, will face permanent ineligibility for cash assistance unless it is their first conviction, in which case they will be ineligible for five years. The bill aims to enhance the enforcement of medical assistance recovery and establish stricter eligibility criteria for public assistance programs while promoting reintegration for those with past convictions.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 39-709, 21-5701