SRC-ARR H.B. 985 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 985 76R3513 KKA-DBy: Maxey (Zaffirini) Human Services 5/3/1999 Engrossed DIGEST Texas currently enjoys efficient and secure delivery of governmental benefits through electronic benefits transfer (EBT). EBT was implemented statewide in 1995 for the food stamp and Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) programs in the form of the Lone Star Card. This EBT/Lone Star Card system has streamlined program administration, reduced the illegal sale of food stamps, provided ease of service for clients, and reduced system handling cost. However, state agencies are not currently required to comply with the strategic guidelines adopted by the Interagency Task Force on Electronic Benefits Transfers when delivering any proposed public benefits. H.B. 985 would require a state agency to comply with strategic guidelines in developing electronic benefits transfer systems. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 985 requires a state agency to comply with strategic guidelines in developing electronic benefits transfer systems. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Section 531.045, Government Code, by adding Subsection (i), to require a state agency that purposes to deliver public benefits through electronic benefits transfers to comply with any strategic guidelines adopted by the Interagency Task Force on Electronic Benefits Transfers relating to the development and use of an electronic benefits transfer system. SECTION 2. Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.