HB 2211
Initials AG Page 1 Health & Human Services
ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Fifty-sixth Legislature
First Regular Session
HB 2211: supplemental nutrition assistance program; eligibility
Sponsor: Representative Wilmeth, LD 2
Committee on Health & Human Services
Overview
Allows individuals convicted of a felony offense involving the use or possession of a controlled
substance to be eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) if they are in
compliance with all terms of probation, including any applicable drug testing requirements.
History
SNAP is a federal program that provides nutrition benefits to low-income individuals and families
that are used at stores to purchase food. Individuals must apply in the state in which they currently
live and meet certain requirements. The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES)
receives and reviews applications of eligible recipients for SNAP benefits.
Individuals convicted of a controlled-substance related felony may be eligible for SNAP benefits
if they meet one of the following criteria:
1) successfully complete a substance abuse treatment program;
2) is currently enrolled or accepted into a substance abuse treatment program, but placed
on a waiting list;
3) is currently accepted for treatment in and is participating in a substance abuse treatment
program;
4) is determined by a licensed medical provider not to need substance abuse treatment; or
5) if applicable, is in compliance with all terms of probation.
DES is required to adopt drug testing rules that include more frequent drug testing for offenses
that occurred within 24 months of an individual's date of application (A.R.S. § 46-219).
Provisions
1. Permits a person convicted of a felony offense involving the use or possession of a controlled
substance to be eligible for SNAP benefits if the person follows all terms of probation, including
any applicable drug testing requirements. (Sec. 1)
2. Removes the following SNAP eligibility criteria:
a) successful completion of a substance abuse treatment program;
b) being enrolled or accepted into a substance abuse treatment program, but placed on a
waiting list;
c) is currently accepted for treatment in and is participating in a substance abuse treatment
program; or
d) is determined by a licensed medical provider not to need substance abuse treatment.
(Sec. 1)
3. Repeals the requirement that DES adopt rules related to drug testing for SNAP eligibility after
conviction. (Sec.1)
4. Makes technical and conforming changes. (Sec. 1)
☐ Prop 105 (45 votes) ☐ Prop 108 (40 votes) ☐ Emergency (40 votes) ☐ Fiscal Note