Texas House Bill HB373

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to an audit of the use of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program money.

Impact

If enacted, HB373 will establish a clearer oversight mechanism for TANF funds, potentially leading to changes in how financial assistance is administered in Texas. The legislature will gain insights from the audit results, which may influence future funding decisions and policies regarding welfare programs. This measure is expected to reinforce the importance of proper fund allocation and to uphold the integrity of financial assistance programs designed to help needy families in the state.

Summary

House Bill 373 aims to provide a systematic audit of the funds allocated for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program in Texas. Specifically, it requires the State Auditor's Office to conduct an audit of the financial assistance provided for a six-year period, starting from September 1, 2010. The purpose of this audit is to ensure accountability and transparency concerning the use of TANF funds allocated to this welfare program. The State Auditor's Office is required to deliver a report detailing findings on the usage of these funds to the legislature by December 1, 2018.

Contention

While the bill promotes transparency and accountability, there might be concerns regarding the scope of the audit and the implications it has for the agencies involved in administering TANF funds. Some stakeholders may worry that increased scrutiny could lead to decreased funding for critical services if inefficiencies are uncovered. Additionally, there may be debate about the timing of the report's deadline and whether the State Auditor has sufficient resources to conduct such a comprehensive audit effectively.