BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 1072

By: Allen

Human Services

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Texas is reported to be among the states with the highest percentage of households that are considered food insecure, but it is one of the few states that impose a household disqualification, rather than an individual disqualification, for benefits under the supplemental nutrition assistance program if the primary wage earner in the household fails to comply with certain program requirements. Concerned parties assert that this policy unfairly punishes persons who have not violated any of the program's rules, policies, or procedures. H.B. 1072 seeks to ensure that children and other household dependents who benefit from the program are not punished because of the actions of another member of the household.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 1072 amends the Human Resources Code to prohibit the Health and Human Services Commission from denying benefits under the supplemental nutrition assistance program to other eligible household members if an individual who is the head of household becomes ineligible for those benefits for failing to comply with federal employment or employment and training program requirements.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2013.