HB53 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Chris EnglandRepresentative

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Food stamps and welfare, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), persons with felony drug conviction, federal law provisions making ineligible, provision for persons to be eligible under certain conditions

Summary

HB53 would allow Alabama residents convicted of drug-related felonies to become eligible for TANF and SNAP after completing their sentence or while on probation if they meet conditions.

What This Bill Does

Currently, federal law blocks benefits for those with drug felony convictions. This bill would create a state exemption so drug-related felony offenders can receive TANF and SNAP after they finish their sentence or while on probation, including during mandatory treatment participation. They must meet all other program eligibility requirements. The change would take effect on the first day of the third month after the governor signs it into law.

Who It Affects

• Individuals in Alabama who have been convicted of a drug-related felony and would otherwise be ineligible for TANF or SNAP, who could become eligible after completing their sentence or while on probation if they meet conditions.
• State welfare agencies (such as the Department of Human Resources) and staff who administer TANF and SNAP, who would implement and enforce the new eligibility rules.

Key Provisions

• Section 1: A person convicted of a drug-related felony who would be ineligible for TANF or SNAP shall become eligible upon completion of the sentence or while satisfactorily serving a period of probation, including during mandatory drug or alcohol treatment, as long as they meet all other eligibility requirements.
• Section 2: The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after its passage and approval by the Governor (or once it becomes law).

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Criminal Law and Procedure