This bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 39-709 to allow individuals with felony drug convictions to receive assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by removing the disqualification for food assistance for those convicted of felony offenses related to controlled substances occurring on or after July 1, 2015. It establishes that individuals shall not be denied food assistance solely based on a drug-related felony conviction and provides a pathway for regaining eligibility through participation in an approved drug treatment program and passing drug tests. The previous requirements that led to ineligibility due to drug testing and treatment program participation have been deleted, promoting access to essential nutritional support for those reintegrating into society.

Additionally, the bill introduces stricter work requirements for able-bodied adults aged 18 to 49 receiving food assistance, including mandatory registration for work and participation in employment training programs, with penalties for non-compliance. It also outlines eligibility criteria for child care assistance, medical assistance recovery, and drug screening for cash assistance recipients when there is reasonable suspicion of unlawful substance use. Notably, individuals convicted of certain drug-related felonies 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 while addressing substance abuse among cash assistance recipients.

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