People with felony convictions, incarcerated or not, often face “collateral consequences,” which are significant barriers that can range from being denied employment to losing voting rights. Some states subject people with a drug-related felony conviction to restrictions or complete bans on food assistance under SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly food stamps), cash assistance through TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), or both. Public assistance such as TANF and SNAP consistently reduces recidivism, while banning access to assistance has been linked to increases in recidivism. CLASP works to ensure that people transitioning out of incarceration have access to the public benefits support they need to succeed.
Economic justice requires a public benefits system that works both for anyone experiencing a financial emergency and also supports long-lasting economic security. That’s why CLASP advocates for federal and state policies that center racial equity, increase investment, prevent harmful cuts, and streamline access across public programs. We work to make public benefits like SNAP, WIC, rental assistance, and Medicaid more equitable and effective. At the same time, we call for policies like guaranteed income and an expanded Child Tax Credit, which had an enormous impact on poverty in recent years. We envision a future where basic needs are abundantly met, and everyone has the opportunities and resources to flourish. We envision a system of public benefits that is accessible, equitable, reparative, responsive, easy-to-navigate, and co-created with directly impacted people.