A wide ranging piece of legislation focusing on reforming Kentucky’s welfare program passed out of committee Thursday. Proponents see it as a way to better serve those in need, create efficiencies, and address fraud. Opponents worry it’s a punitive approach which will hurt those in need.
House Bill one calls for a single electronic benefit transfer card for each beneficiary and seeks to prohibit public assistance for trafficking EBT cards. The comprehensive overhaul measure requires a Medicaid recipient convicted of a drug related felony offense to seek treatment to maintain benefits. Sponsor David Meade testified about work requirements during the committee discussion. “No one loses their benefits unless one of two things has happened. They either misuse those benefits, they’re completely able-bodied people who choose not to work. This bill is a good balance between compassion and accountability,” said Meade.
Meade said children would not be denied benefits.
A number of speakers representing drug treatment peer mentoring, mental health services, and an economic policy center expressed concerns about the bill. Peer Support Specialist Kristin Arant said those suffering from substance use disorders want to work and support their children. Also speaking in opposition to the bill was retired Perry County Doctor Gretta Combs. “Most people are just trying to live, despite every disadvantage they have. They are not trying to cheat the system. They are trying to survive,” noted Combs.
The legislation carries a $20 million price tag with $15 million projected to come from the federal government. It also would require a federal Medicaid waiver.? The bill now goes to the full House.
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