Bill > SB1401

This bill modifies provisions of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), specifically addressing eligibility for individuals with controlled substance-related felony convictions. Under the previous law, individuals convicted of drug-related felonies faced complex requirements to regain SNAP benefits, including participation in substance abuse treatment programs, compliance with court obligations, and demonstrating sobriety. The new bill simplifies these requirements by broadly exempting individuals convicted of controlled substance felonies from the federal prohibition on SNAP benefits, as allowed by a federal statute (21 U.S.C. Section 862a(d)(1)). This change means that people with drug-related felony convictions will now be able to access SNAP benefits without having to meet the previously mandated treatment and compliance criteria. The bill represents a more lenient approach to supporting individuals with past drug convictions by removing barriers to accessing nutritional assistance.

Health and Social Services

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=695