HB539 Summary

• Exempts individuals convicted of drug-related felonies from federal prohibitions on receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and supplemental nutrition assistance if they meet specified conditions.

• For convictions on or before June 30, 2012: Eligibility requires current participation in, enrollment with waiting list for, or completion of an approved substance abuse treatment program, plus compliance with all court-imposed obligations.

• For convictions on or after July 1, 2012: Eligibility requires successful completion of substance abuse treatment within three attempts; failure to complete within three attempts results in three-year ineligibility.

• Individuals convicted of a second drug felony are ineligible for TANF and food assistance benefits for three years from the conviction date.

• Individuals convicted of Class A felonies under Alabama Code Article 5, Chapter 12, Title 13A are permanently ineligible for these exemptions.