Bill > HB2734

This bill amends the Texas Penal Code to create a new criminal offense related to public assistance program fraud by expanding the existing statute on false statements. The bill defines "public assistance programs" to include specific health and financial support programs such as child health plans, financial assistance, medical assistance, and nutritional assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Under the proposed law, a person commits an offense if they intentionally or knowingly make a materially false or misleading written statement in an application to obtain benefits from these programs. The severity of the criminal offense is determined by the value of the fraudulently obtained benefit, ranging from a Class C misdemeanor for benefits under $100 to a first-degree felony for benefits of $300,000 or more. This legislation aims to deter fraud in public assistance programs by establishing clear legal consequences for individuals who submit false information on program applications. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, giving state agencies time to prepare for the new legal requirements.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2734