FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                           Contact: Deena Keilany

Email: dkeilany@leg.ne.gov

Senator Megan Hunt Introduces Legislation to Amend SNAP Eligibility Requirements

Lincoln, NE— 1.11.19 — Today Senator Megan Hunt introduced LB169, legislation that increases access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Under current statute, an individual with three or more felony convictions for possession or use of controlled substances is ineligible to receive SNAP benefits. LB169 removes this restriction.  The bill also allows people with three or more felony convictions for the use of a controlled substance to qualify for SNAP if they participate in a substance abuse program. The intent of the bill is to remove a major barrier to successful reintegration for formerly incarcerated people, while also reducing hunger for individuals and their families that are affected.

“Over 600,000 individuals are released from state and federal prisons every year who face monumental barriers to attaining employment and housing.  Restricting access to basic necessities for this population perpetuates the cycle of poverty and increases rates of recidivism,” said Senator Hunt.  “We have seen a national trend toward policies that ensure food security and stability for formerly incarcerated people and their families.  It’s time we adopt this common sense, compassionate approach.”

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For more information, please contact Deena Keilany at (402) 471-2722 or dkeilany@leg.ne.gov