Bill > H2247

This bill aims to restrict the use of direct cash assistance funds provided through electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, which are government-issued cards used to receive and spend benefits like food stamps or cash assistance. Specifically, it prohibits eligible recipients from using these funds to purchase alcoholic beverages, lottery tickets, or tobacco products, with penalties ranging from a one-month ineligibility for assistance for a first offense to permanent ineligibility for a fourth offense. Furthermore, it makes it illegal for individuals or store owners to knowingly accept EBT funds for these prohibited items, imposing fines for violations and barring store owners from accepting EBT cards after a third offense. The bill also establishes penalties for embezzling, stealing, or fraudulently obtaining funds from the department of transitional assistance, with punishments varying based on the value of the stolen funds.