SNAP eligibility expanded

Senators passed a bill May 14 that eliminates the state’s lifetime ban on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program eligibility for individuals with certain drug-related convictions.

Previously, individuals with one or more felony convictions involving the sale or distribution of a controlled substance or three or more felony convictions for possession or use were prohibited from receiving SNAP benefits.

LB319, introduced by Bellevue Sen. Victor Rountree, removes the lifetime ban and allows individuals with felony drug convictions to receive SNAP benefits if they otherwise qualify and have completed their sentence or are serving a term of parole, probation or post-release supervision.

Under the bill, an individual with three or more felony convictions for possession or use of a controlled substance is eligible only after participating in an approved treatment program while incarcerated or on probation or parole following their most recent conviction.

An exception from mandatory substance abuse treatment may be granted on a case-by-case basis if a licensed health care practitioner determines such treatment is not required.

LB319 passed on a 32-17 vote.