SB 736 - This act modifies provisions relating to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits. OUT-OF-STATE USE OF EBT CARDS (Section 208.022)
This act prohibits TANF benefits on electronic benefits cards from being used out-of-state, except that TANF recipients who are in the military are allowed to use them out-of-state. Recipients who leave the state in pursuit of employment are also allowed to use them out-of-state. In such instances, the recipient shall notify the Department of Social Services of such absence from the state, temporary address, and intended time of return.
FULL FAMILY IMMEDIATE SANCTION (Section 208.026)
This act requires the Department of Social Services to immediately apply a total full family unit sanction of TANF benefits if after an investigation the Department determines that a person is not cooperating with a work activity requirement under the TANF program. The sanction shall apply for a minimum of one month. During that month of sanctions, the person shall remain on the caseload in sanction status. To cure a sanction, the person shall perform 30 consecutive days of work activities. If the person does not cure the sanction, the case shall be closed. This act allows for the person to reapply for benefits by completing 30 days of work activities within 40 days of the eligibility interview.
LIFE-TIME LIMITS, FAMILY CAPS AND CASH DIVERSION (208.040.5)
Beginning January 1, 2015, the following changes shall be made to the TANF program:
(1) The life-time limit for TANF shall be 24 months;
(2) The Department of Social Services shall impose a family cap on increasing the monthly benefit based on the birth of an additional child born 10 months after the case for such family unit is opened;
(3) The Department shall implement a cash diversion program that grants eligible TANF benefits recipients lump-sum cash grants for short-term needs in lieu of signing up for the long-term monthly cash assistance program. The lump-sum maximum limit shall be set at three times the family size allowance and for use once in a 12-month period and for only five instances in a lifetime.
ADRIANE CROUSE