Tennessee Senate Bill SB2078

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Engrossed: 2/22/24
• Enrolled: 3/5/24
• Passed: 3/15/24
• Chaptered: 3/26/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 71, Chapter 3, Part 1 and Title 71, Chapter 5, Part 3, relative to public assistance.

Impact

The bill significantly alters the landscape of public assistance in Tennessee. It allows for disqualification from assistance programs for increasingly long periods based on the severity of the violation. For first offenses involving controlled substances, there is a 24-month disqualification period, while the second offense leads to a permanent disqualification. This approach is seen as a strong deterrent against the misuse of public assistance but may also raise concerns about access to essential services for the most vulnerable populations.

Summary

Senate Bill 2078 proposes amendments to various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated focused on public assistance programs. The bill primarily seeks to introduce stricter penalties and disqualification periods for individuals found guilty of violating certain provisions, particularly those involving the sale or trafficking of controlled substances. It aims to reduce fraud in public assistance programs such as temporary assistance and food assistance by imposing stiff consequences for program violations.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB 2078 appears to be mixed. Supporters view the bill as a necessary step towards ensuring integrity within the public assistance system, arguing that it upholds the moral responsibility of the state to safeguard taxpayer resources. However, there is significant concern among advocacy groups and some legislators who argue that the increased penalties may disproportionately affect low-income individuals and families, potentially leaving innocent parties without support due to the actions of one member of a household.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential for the bill to adversely affect innocent children and family members of those disqualified. While the bill does include provisions to protect the eligibility of other family members, critics argue that the measure could still lead to hardships for families relying on these critical assistance programs. The debate is emblematic of broader discussions on how to balance accountability in public assistance with the need to protect vulnerable populations from losing essential support.