This bill amends Minnesota Statutes regarding public assistance eligibility for individuals convicted of drug offenses. It specifies that individuals with felony-level drug convictions within the past ten years may be subject to certain conditions when applying for benefits. For those in assistance units, benefits must be paid in vendor form for shelter and utilities, and they may also be required to undergo random drug testing. If they test positive for illegal substances, counties are mandated to provide information about substance use disorder treatment programs. Notably, the bill clarifies that convictions related to cannabis, marijuana, or tetrahydrocannabinols are exempt from these provisions.

Additionally, the bill updates the definition of "drug offense" by removing references to specific sections of the law and adding new ones, specifically including sections 152.022, 152.0261, 152.0262, and 152.096. This change aims to broaden the scope of offenses that affect eligibility for public assistance. The provisions for individuals solely receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are also addressed, allowing them to receive benefits if otherwise eligible, while still being subject to random drug testing and treatment program referrals upon a positive test.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 142G.18, 256D.024