Food Stamp Assistance Measure Sponsored by
Sen. Curls Advances to the House

JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Shalonn “Kiki” Curls, D-Kansas City, is sponsoring legislation this session that would repeal the lifetime ban for food stamp assistance in Missouri.  Senate Bill 680 received bipartisan support on its final passage in the Missouri Senate.  Senator Curls’ legislation would allow an individual who has a drug felony conviction to be eligible for food stamp benefits.

The legislation lays out requirements individuals must meet in order to participate in food stamp assistance, such as attending substance abuse treatment programs and comply with all court-ordered obligations, among others.  Senate Bill 680 also provides limitations for these benefits, banning those from receiving food stamps if they have had three subsequent drug felony offenses after they are released from custody.  In addition, individuals would also have to meet other factors required for food stamp eligibility.

“For a number of years while serving in the General Assembly, I’ve filed legislation designed to extend requirements for food stamp assistance for certain Missourians who have felony convictions for possession or use of a controlled substance — murders, child molesters, and rapists are currently eligible for this assistance,” said Sen. Curls.  “By allowing these individuals to get back on track by lifting the lifetime food stamp ban for felony drug convictions, we can help these citizens move past the stigma of being a past offender and once again become productive members of our society.”

With the Senate’s final approval of Senate Bill 680 last week, the legislation now moves to the House for similar consideration.  To follow this measure, as well as Sen. Curls’ other sponsored bills, visit www.senate.mo.gov/curls.