Lifetime Ban on Food Stamps for Drug Felons?

People who have a drug related criminal felony are not allowed food stamps in some states, and will never receive these benefits. And yet, someone who goes to prison for three armed robbery convictions in the same state may qualify for food stamps. Drug dependent people are specifically targeted with punitive measures in the hopes that it will deter them from abusing substances. Listen in to this opiate recovery support group as they discuss their thoughts on the topic.

Discussion Guide:

Are you familiar with SNAP? What is it?

Have you received government sponsored food stamps?

Should someone, who has a drug related felony, be eligible for food stamps?

Some states require drug tests before granting food stamps.

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Do you think this is an effective measure to decrease drug use?

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Do you think it is a moral measure?

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Is there a stigma involved in this measure?

What are the negative consequences of withholding food stamps from drug felons?

Supplemental Reading:

Molly Born, In Some States, Drug Felons Still Face Lifetime Ban on SNAP Benefits, http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2018/06/20/621391895/in-some-states-drug-felons-still-face-lifetime-ban-on-snap-benefits