Rep Leach Files Bill to Help Reduce Recidivism

Today, Representative Jeff Leach and Senator Royce West filed bills (House Bill 1743 and Senate Bill 727) that would allow incarcerated individuals to apply for SNAP benefits prior to being released from prison. Research shows that people exiting the criminal justice system are especially vulnerable immediately after release. SNAP provides basic food assistance and supplements limited income for formerly incarcerated Texans who often have no means of purchasing food for themselves or their families.

“Ensuring access to food assistance upon release means that Texans leaving the criminal justice system can focus on finding a job and reuniting with family,” Rep. Leach said. “This is a simple policy change that would support the reentry process, reduce recidivism, and could help lower incarceration costs for the state.”