Lycoming News

Three legislative bills aimed at curbing waste, fraud, and abuse in Pennsylvania's public assistance programs have been approved by the state Senate. The bills, introduced by Senators Dave Argall and Scott Martin, target the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program and Medical Assistance program.

Senator Argall emphasized the need for stronger laws to prevent misuse of taxpayer dollars: “Criminals and dead people should not receive millions of taxpayer dollars year after year.” Senator Martin added that addressing waste is crucial given the state's financial challenges: “As our state grapples with a multi-billion-dollar structural deficit, it is critical to take a closer look at how we can protect our tax dollars from waste, fraud and abuse.”

Senate Bill 155 proposes that the Department of Human Services (DHS) cross-check death certificates with public assistance recipients to prevent deceased individuals from receiving benefits. A previous audit revealed over 2,300 deceased recipients had received $700,000 in benefits within a year. This bill passed with a vote of 30-19.

Senate Bill 156 requires DHS to compare wage records with public assistance data quarterly to deter fraud. Between 2019 and 2023, more than 2,900 criminal complaints related to welfare fraud were filed in Pennsylvania. This bill also passed with a vote of 30-19.

Senate Bill 157 aims to update the Public Assistance Integrity Act by mandating an annual report on efforts to ensure lottery winners do not receive cash benefits. The act was originally signed into law in 2018. This bill was approved by a vote of 29-20.

The bills will now proceed to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for further consideration.