SNAP eligibility expansion vetoed, override motion filed

Gov. Jim Pillen vetoed a measure May 14 to eliminate the state’s lifetime ban on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program eligibility for individuals with certain drug-related convictions.

Lawmakers passed LB319, sponsored by Bellevue Sen. Victor Rountree, earlier in the day on a 32-17 vote.

In his veto letter, Pillen said the bill contains “loopholes” that could allow “habitual offenders” to evade a substance abuse treatment requirement. Individuals that distribute or sell illicit drugs should not be entitled to taxpayer-funded benefits, he said.

Rountree filed a motion May 15 to attempt to override the governor’s veto. Thirty votes will be required. Consideration of the override motion is scheduled for May 19.