Mo. Senate bill would let drug convicts get food stamps

Tuesday, March 4, 2008 | 2:03 p.m. CST
BY The Associated Press

JEFFERSON CITY — Senators are considering a bill that would let drug convicts get food stamps.

The federal government currently bars food stamps from going to drug convicts but allows states to enact laws providing them benefits.

The legislation by Democratic Sen. Yvonne Wilson of Kansas City would grant food stamps to felons convicted of dealing, possessing or using drugs under several conditions. To qualify, convicted felons would have to either complete a substance abuse program or be active in one. They could also qualify if they have been determined not to need treatment.

Legislative researchers project the bill eventually would cover more than 15,000 people at a cost of $2 million in state and federal money.

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