LIFETIME BANS FROM SNAP HURT FAMILIES

In many states, people convicted of a drug-related felony are banned for life from receiving SNAP and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits. These bans, which disproportionately affect people of color because of unequal enforcement of drug laws, disconnect individuals and their families from safety net supports that would aid their transition back to society. Parents who are arrested for non-violent drug felonies often feel pressured to plead guilty to avoid longer prison sentences that would keep them from their families.  Although ex-offenders can apply for safety net benefits for their children, the bans significantly reduce the amount of cash or food assistance the whole family receives and blocks them entirely from other support services like employment and training programs or child care subsidies.  But some states, such as Colorado and Connecticut, have modified their bans to allow people with prior felony drug convictions to regain eligibility for TANF and SNAP benefits by successful completion of drug education or treatment. 

Source: Center for Law and Social Policy, 10/3/14, SNAP Bans