Re-Entry Support Through Opportunities for Resources and Essentials Act of 2025; RESTORE Act of 2025
Summary
The RESTORE Act of 2025 aims to amend the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. It seeks to allow individuals with drug offenses to receive benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The bill also modifies the definition of 'household' under SNAP to include incarcerated individuals scheduled for release within 30 days.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the RESTORE Act would eliminate state-level restrictions on SNAP eligibility based on drug-related convictions. It would also expand SNAP benefits to soon-to-be-released incarcerated individuals, potentially aiding their reintegration into society. This could lead to increased SNAP enrollment and associated costs.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to food assistance for individuals with prior drug offenses, promoting rehabilitation.
- Facilitates smoother re-entry into society for incarcerated individuals by providing nutritional support upon release.
- Reduces potential recidivism by addressing basic needs and promoting stability.
- Aligns federal policy with evidence-based approaches to criminal justice reform.
- Could improve public health outcomes by addressing food insecurity among vulnerable populations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in SNAP program costs due to expanded eligibility.
- Concerns about potential misuse of benefits by individuals with substance abuse issues.
- May face political opposition from those who believe drug offenders should not receive public assistance.
- Possible administrative challenges in implementing the changes to SNAP eligibility and household definitions.
- Could strain existing resources of food banks and other charitable organizations if SNAP benefits are insufficient.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's broad mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), which includes the SNAP program. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).