SB 879: Human Services, Dept. of - As enacted, requires the commissioner of human services to provide the commissioner of correction with a form application for food assistance for use by inmates who are preparing for release. - Amends TCA Title 71, Chapter 5, Part 3.
SB 879 status: Introduced — Pub. Ch. 1060 (updated May 27, 2026).
What this bill does
Overall score
Bill summary
OfficialHere is a simple explanation: **A new law will make it easier for people leaving prison to get food stamps. State agencies are now required to give inmates food assistance applications before they are released, so they can have help lined up as soon as they get back into the community.**
Key analysis
Impact analysis
Environment
Benefits
- No direct effect on environmental policy.
Risks
- No direct effect on environmental policy.
Economy
Benefits
- May improve economic stability for individuals re-entering the workforce.
- Potentially lowers social costs associated with recidivism.
Risks
- Minimal fiscal impact on state administrative resources.
Society
Benefits
- Addresses critical food insecurity for a vulnerable population.
- Supports successful re-integration into society.
Risks
- Effectiveness depends entirely on the coordination between departments.
How trustworthy & consequential it is
Source
OpenStates
Confidence
lowlow
Analysis status
OpenStates summary
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Analysis based on abstract summary; full text not reviewed.
Where it stands
Introduced
CurrentPub. Ch. 1060
Committee
UpcomingFloor
UpcomingGovernor
UpcomingEnacted
UpcomingHow it affects your district
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