(Long Island, NY) Senator Ken LaValle reports that the NY State Senate today passed the “Public Assistance Integrity Act”, which would prohibit the use of welfare funds for the purchase of alcohol, tobacco, or lottery tickets. A sponsor of the bill, Senator LaValle said, “Now, we need the Assembly to pass the legislation, so the Governor can sign it into law. Taxpayer funds should not be used for these types of activities.”
“In addition, New York State also stands to lose $120 million in federal funds if this doesn’t become law. The legislation will ensure monies are available for those truly in need.” Senator LaValle continued. Currently, disreputable people are utilizing the Electronic Benefits Transfer cards (EBT cards) to pay for items that were never intended to be covered by the welfare system.
The penalties under the measure would result in the individuals being removed from the welfare programs after a 3-strikes-you’re-out penalty phase. The Senate passed the legislation during last year’s session, but the Assembly did not act.
