Senate Bill No. 209 Summary

• Allows individuals convicted of felonies involving controlled substance possession or use to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, with limited exceptions under federal law.

• Requires the Department of Correction to assist committed offenders in applying for SNAP and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) before release, parole, community transition assignment, or discharge.

• Mandates the Department of Correction provide application assistance in sufficient time to ensure offenders can receive benefits immediately upon release or parole.

• Indiana opts out of the federal ban on SNAP eligibility for individuals with drug felony convictions under 21 U.S.C. 862a(a).

• Effective July 1, 2011.