Bill > H3380

This bill, concerning the use of cash benefit assistance, introduces a new definition for "border state," which includes Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. It then amends existing law to prohibit individuals from knowingly using direct cash assistance funds, which are held on an electronic benefit transfer card or access device, in any state other than Massachusetts or one of these defined border states. The department responsible for administering these benefits will be required to track any such usage that violates this new rule on a monthly basis and will contact and investigate recipients whose cards or devices are used improperly. Finally, the bill mandates that the department of transitional assistance create the necessary rules and regulations to put these changes into effect.