SRC-AXB S.B. 1158 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1158 76R4873 CLG-DBy: Carona Human Services 3/18/1999 As Filed DIGEST Currently, Texas Department of Human Services rules provide penalties for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and food stamp fraud convictions, ending with permanent disqualification upon the third violation. TANF violation penalties, which are not prescribed by state or federal law, were recently updated to be consistent with federally prescribed food stamp-related penalties. S.B. 1158 establishes fraudulent conduct and imposes immediate permanent disqualification from financial assistance programs upon a first violation. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 1158 establishes a description for fraudulent conduct with respect to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits under this section, and permanently disqualifies offenders from receiving financial assistance. 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 Chapter 31A, Human Resources Code, by adding Section 31.017, as follows: Sec. 31.017. FRAUD. Prohibits a person from intentionally taking certain actions to maintain eligibility for financial assistance. Requires the Texas Department of Human Services (TDHS) to take certain actions subsequent to the determination of a violation. Requires TDHS to permanently disqualify a person who violates this section from receiving financial assistance. Authorizes a violator to appeal the determination, and sets forth appeal procedures. Disqualifies a convicted offender under the Penal Code, from ever receiving financial assistance. Expands the disqualifications for an offender to include permanent disqualification from medical assistance, child care, or any other social or support services under this section. SECTION 2.Effective date: September 1, 1999. Makes application of this Act prospective. SECTION 3.Emergency clause.