Current law allows individuals convicted of Class H or I controlled substance felony offenses in the state to become eligible to participate in the Work First Program and the food and nutrition services program only (1) after six months passes from their release date or conviction date, if not placed in custody; (2) if no additional controlled substance felony offense has been committed during that time; and (3) upon successful completion or continuous active participation in a required substance abuse treatment program.

Amends GS 108A-25.2 by allowing an individual otherwise eligible to participate in the Work First Program or the food and nutrition services program to be exempt from the application of section 115(a) of the federal Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996, P.L. 104-193, and mandates that such individuals will not be denied assistance from either program solely because of drug-related felony conviction(s). Removes requirement that county departments of social services mandate that eligible individuals for either program pursuant to this section undergo substance abuse treatment to receive program benefits.

Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to direct county departments of social services to require recertification of eligibility for Food and Nutrition Services every 12 months, unless otherwise required by federal law.

Effective January 1, 2026.