Bill > H72

This bill, concerning the welfare of Massachusetts citizens, introduces new reporting requirements and restrictions for recipients of public benefits, particularly focusing on direct cash assistance. It mandates that recipients must notify the department of any change of address within 10 days, with penalties for failure to do so ranging from a temporary loss of benefits for a first offense to permanent disqualification for a third offense. The bill also requires the department to cross-reference recipient information with the Registry of Motor Vehicles and maintain records of asset eligibility for public inspection. Furthermore, it defines "direct cash assistance" as cash provided directly to recipients, and states that such assistance will cease after June 30, 2014. The bill prohibits the use of direct cash assistance funds, whether on electronic benefit transfer cards or other forms, for purchasing non-essential items such as alcohol, lottery tickets, tobacco, firearms, vacation services, tattoos, jewelry, or for gambling, with escalating penalties for violations. It also prohibits using these funds for purchases outside the Commonwealth. Finally, the bill requires the department to submit semi-annual reports detailing enforcement actions and violations related to these provisions.