Bill > SB0879

This bill requires the Department of Human Services to develop and provide a food assistance application form for inmates preparing for release from state correctional institutions, which are facilities that detain individuals under state law. This application must allow inmates to decline assistance, state their reasons for doing so, and offer an anonymous option or allow a re-entry specialist to document their refusal. The Department of Correction will distribute these forms to inmates before their release, collect them, and return them to the Department of Human Services. Furthermore, the Department of Correction must submit an annual report to legislative leaders detailing the number of applications completed, declined, and approved for food assistance for inmates prior to release, along with the reasons for declines. The Department of Human Services is also mandated to seek any necessary waivers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to implement these provisions and provide the Department of Correction with any data needed for the report.