85R7384 MM-D By: Klick H.B. No. 3565 A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT relating to the distribution of benefits under the supplemental nutrition assistance program. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Section 33.002, Human Resources Code, is amended by adding Subsection (c-1) to read as follows: (c-1) The executive commissioner by rule shall establish a schedule for the distribution of supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits that ensures the even distribution of the benefits each month over a 28-day period. SECTION 2. Not later than September 1, 2018, the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission shall adopt, modify, or repeal rules as necessary to implement Section 33.002(c-1), Human Resources Code, as added by this Act. SECTION 3. A distribution schedule adopted as required by Section 33.002(c-1), Human Resources Code, as added by this Act, applies only to the distribution of supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits to a recipient whose initial determination of eligibility under Chapter 33, Human Resources Code, for those benefits is made on or after September 1, 2018. The distribution of benefits to a recipient whose initial determination of eligibility under Chapter 33, Human Resources Code, is made before September 1, 2018, is governed by the distribution schedule in effect immediately preceding that date, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose. SECTION 4. If before implementing any provision of this Act a state agency determines that a waiver or authorization from a federal agency is necessary for implementation of that provision, the agency affected by the provision shall request the waiver or authorization and may delay implementing that provision until the waiver or authorization is granted. SECTION 5. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2017.