Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HR8

Introduced
4/12/21  
Introduced
4/12/21  
Refer
4/13/21  
Report Pass
4/28/21  
Report Pass
4/28/21  

Caption

Requests an investigation of out-of-state retailers at which the greatest amounts of Louisiana-issued SNAP benefits are expended for purposes of fraud detection and prevention

Impact

The implications of HR8 are significant for state laws concerning the administration of public assistance programs. By focusing attention on out-of-state spending, the resolution aims to improve accountability and transparency within the SNAP program. It highlights the potential for misuse of benefits outside Louisiana, raising awareness about the management of federal assistance programs at the state level. This initiative may lead to legislative or administrative changes to further safeguard the integrity of SNAP and similar programs.

Summary

House Resolution 8 (HR8) urges the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to investigate out-of-state retailers that receive the highest amounts of Louisiana-issued Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This resolution stems from concerns about the integrity of program expenditures and aims to enhance oversight over the use of taxpayer-funded assistance by identifying potential fraud, waste, and abuse. The resolution emphasizes the importance of ensuring that SNAP benefits are provided only to eligible households and are utilized appropriately.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HR8 appears to be supportive, with lawmakers recognizing the necessity of safeguarding public funds meant for vulnerable populations. Supporters believe that increased scrutiny of out-of-state expenditures will bolster program integrity and promote responsible usage of SNAP benefits. However, some concerns may arise regarding the scope and feasibility of the proposed investigation, as well as the balance between oversight and accessibility of benefits for eligible recipients.

Contention

While the resolution requests an investigation, discussions may arise regarding the resource allocation for such activities and the methods used to monitor and evaluate out-of-state retailer practices. Critics might argue that focusing on out-of-state expenditures could divert attention from addressing issues present within Louisiana's own administration of SNAP. As the DCFS begins this investigation, potential points of contention may surface around how findings are reported and the specific measures taken to address any identified fraud or abuse.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HR7

Requests that the Dept. of Children and Family Services study out-of-state expenditures of Louisiana-issued Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits in order to identify fraud

LA HR6

Requests that the Dept. of Children and Family Services develop data-sharing agreements with the appropriate authorities to identify lottery and other gaming winners who receive SNAP benefits

LA HCR31

Requests a study effort and annual reports concerning types of foods and beverages purchased with SNAP benefits

LA HR5

Requests state agencies administering public assistance programs to ensure that state employees enrolled in those programs are eligible for benefits

LA SB215

Establishes the SNAP Fraud and Abuse Detection and Prevention Fund in the state treasury and provides funding to enhance fraud and abuse detection and prevention activities related to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. (gov sig) (EN SD RV See Note)

LA SCR57

Requests that DHH and DCFS work to streamline the process of clearing the names of deceased recipients from the list of those eligible for SNAP benefits.

LA HB1062

Provides for a task force to make recommendations concerning electronic issuance of SNAP benefits

LA HB624

Transfers certain family and support programs from the Department of Children and Family Services to the Louisiana Workforce Commission and renames Louisiana Workforce Commission to Louisiana Works (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA ACR123

Urges United States President, Congress, and USDA to take steps to protect SNAP beneficiaries from fraud.

LA ACR183

Urges United States President, Congress, and USDA to take steps to protect SNAP beneficiaries from fraud.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.