WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 2760

Relating to the eligibility for financial assistance of persons following certain drug-related convictions.

89th Legislature (2025)

SB 2760 expands Texas financial assistance eligibility for people with drug convictions, potentially increasing state spending while supporting criminal reentry.

Referred to Health & Human Services
#alcoholism&drugabuse(i0030) #corrections--parole #probation&pardons(i0093) #crimes--drugs(i0185) #health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #humanservices--directassistance(i0900) #mandatory&communitysupervision(s2314)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 2760

Legislative bill overview

SB 2760 modifies Texas law to expand eligibility for state financial assistance programs to individuals with certain drug-related convictions. Currently, federal law and some state programs impose categorical bans on assistance for people convicted of drug felonies. This bill would restore or expand access to benefits like SNAP, TANF, and other support programs for this population.

Why is this important

Drug conviction bans on public assistance have been in place for decades and affect tens of thousands of Texans attempting reentry into society. Restoring access to basic financial assistance can reduce recidivism, support family stability, and decrease pressure on emergency services. The fiscal and social outcomes of reentry support versus continued restrictions are actively debated in criminal justice reform discussions.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal law conflicts: Federal statutes impose lifetime or partial bans on SNAP and TANF for drug felons; Texas expanding eligibility may require federal waivers or create administrative complexity
  • Fiscal impact: Expanding assistance eligibility increases state budget obligations, which differs from current cost-saving through exclusions
  • Public safety concerns: Opponents may argue that assistance to convicted drug felons prioritizes offender support over crime prevention or victim services
  • Definition scope: The bill's language on "certain drug-related convictions" requires clarity—whether it covers all drug felonies or specific categories affects the actual population impacted

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.