Legislature(1995 - 1996)
04/11/1996 09:50 AM Senate FIN
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* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
SENATE BILL NO. 98
An Act making changes related to the aid to families
with dependent children program, the Medicaid program,
the general relief assistance program, and the adult
public assistance program; directing the Department of
Health and Social Services to apply to the federal
government for waivers to implement the changes where
necessary; relating to eligibility for permanent fund
dividends of certain individuals who receive state
assistance, to notice requirements applicable to the
dividend program; and providing for an effective date.
Co-chairman Halford directed that SB 98 be brought on for
discussion. SENATOR LYDA GREEN came before committee
accompanied by her aide, MIKE TIBBLES.
END: SFC-96, #73-B, Side 1
BEGIN: SFC-96, #73-B, Side 2
She directed attention to a work draft CSSB 98 (9-LS0692\N,
Lauterbach, 4/10/96) and explained that the draft provides
the option for waivers if federal legislation is not
forthcoming. If federal law is enacted, the proposed bill
provides the department the ability to go forward with new
federal requirements. She suggested that time could be
saved in review of the draft since Pages 2 through the top
of Page 7 replicate HB 78 which was passed last year.
Provisions of the Diversion Program set forth on Page 7 were
in HB 78 and picked up by the Governor for inclusion within
his bill.
Pointing to provisions relating to Ineligibility for
Assistance (set forth at Page 8 as Section 2), Senator Green
advised that (a) language is from the Federal Code of
Regulations. Subsection (b) is new language relating to
individuals who intentionally transfer assets to other
individuals so that the individual making the transfer can
become eligible for benefits. Subsection (c) at Page 9 was
included in the Governor's bill, SB 98, and HB 78. The same
is true for provisions relating to Assistance to Minors with
Children (Pages 9 through 11).
Senator Rieger raised a question regarding reference to
"other adult relative" at Page 9. Senator Green explained
that provisions attempt to give latitude to situations in
which a minor, with a child, does not wish to live at home
with parents. The minor may choose to live with another
relative.
Directing attention to Page 11, line 6, Senator Green
referenced the 3 percent deferred benefit and advised that
she envisioned the benefit going directly to a child care
grant which would follow an individual once the individual
goes off benefits. It responds to complaints that
recipients are often suddenly off benefits with no
opportunity or funds to afford child care. It provides an
extension following the two years during which the recipient
prepared to go back to work. The department does not agree
with this provision. In response to a question by Senator
Rieger regarding funding for child care, Senator Green
advised that it would be provided via a fiscal note to
accompany the bill.
The "shelter allowance" at Page 11, line 24, reflects new
language incorporated within the Governor's bill. Those who
qualify for shelter allowance may also qualify for 100
percent of the AFDC program. They would then receive
benefits in excess of those received by other AFDC
recipients. Language at Page 11 provides for accountability
and a deduct based on the percentage of the subsidized
housing.
Page 12, subsection (i) at line 4, also contains a new
concept. It relates to seasonal benefit reductions for
those receiving unemployment. The provision was taken from
the Governor's bill and incorporated as part of the
legislature's waiver proposal.
Section 6, at Page 12, addresses time limits on benefits.
Language is a modification of that in HB 78. It provides
that individuals are not eligible for more than 24 months of
assistance during any 60 consecutive months. In HB 78 this
requirement was tied to the Jobs Program. It is the
standard in this legislation. There will no longer be a
two-tiered approach.
Section 7, on Page 13, is a modification of language from
the Governor's bill. Senator Green noted an attempt within
HB 78 to tie continuing family qualification to school
attendance by dependent children. That became cumbersome.
Modified language requires the minor parent to remain in
school.
Co-chairman Halford noted need to conclude the meeting for
members' attendance at the Senate floor session. He
announced that the next meeting would commence with
continued discussion of SB 98.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 11:05 a.m.
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