BILL REQ. #:  H-1531.1 

Read first time 02/10/11.   Referred to Committee on Early Learning & Human Services.

     AN ACT Relating to photo identification on electronic benefit cards issued to recipients of public assistance; and amending RCW 74.08.580.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

Sec. 1   RCW 74.08.580 and 2002 c 252 s 1 are each amended to read as follows:
     (1) An electronic benefit card issued to or on behalf of a person receiving public assistance must contain a photo identification of the person authorized to use the card.
     (2) Any person receiving public assistance is prohibited from using electronic benefit cards or cash obtained with electronic benefit cards:
     (a) For the purpose of participating in any of the activities authorized under chapter 9.46 RCW;
     (b) For the purpose of parimutuel wagering authorized under chapter 67.16 RCW; or
     (c) To purchase lottery tickets or shares authorized under chapter 67.70 RCW.
     (((2))) (3)(a) The department shall notify, in writing, all recipients of electronic benefit cards that any violation of subsection (((1))) (2) of this section could result in legal proceedings and forfeiture of all cash public assistance.
     (b) Whenever the department receives notice that a person has violated subsection (((1))) (2) of this section, the department shall notify the person in writing that the violation could result in legal proceedings and forfeiture of all cash public assistance.
     (c) The department shall assign a protective payee to the person receiving public assistance who violates subsection (((1))) (2) of this section.