The House Family, Children and Human Affairs Committee heard SB 132, sponsored by Rep. T. Brown, on food stamp assistance after drug conviction. Author Sen. Broden testified that this bill allows certain individuals who were convicted of a drug offense, but have been released from incarceration at least five years before applying for food stamps, and have not been convicted of any additional offenses in the five years since release from incarceration; to receive food stamps. It also permits individuals who have had a conviction in the past five years but who do not commit any violation of the terms of a probation, parole, or community corrections program, and do not test positive for drugs or alcohol; to be eligible to receive food stamps.
A representative from the Family Social Services Administration testified about technical concerns in administering these changes, but that they are neutral on the policy. This bill was held for vote.
Read the bill at https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2016/bills/senate/132