Assemblymember Brindisi Will Sponsor Legislation to Prevent Public Assistance Cash Benefit Abuse

January 8, 2013

In an effort to protect taxpayer dollars, Assemblymember Anthony J. Brindisi (D-Utica) announced he is introducing legislation that would prohibit withdrawing of public assistance benefits funds at Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) located in casinos, liquor stores or adult entertainment facilities.

“The majority of individuals that receive public assistance are using the benefits responsibly and honestly,” Assemblymember Brindisi said. “However, an unscrupulous few abuse the system and waste taxpayer dollars inappropriately. If you're accessing money in a strip club or casino, it's unlikely you're there to go buy food or clothing for your family. My concern is that the money intended to help will only be wasted."

Public assistance helps individuals in need to become more self-sufficient by providing access to basic necessities and adequate care for children and families, as well as promoting job preparedness, noted Assemblymember Brindisi. Public assistance cash benefits are often distributed through Electronic Bank Transfer (EBT) cards and can be withdrawn from most ATM locations. Currently, no law exists that protects these public assistance benefits from being withdrawn from ATMs in liquor stores, casinos or adult entertainment establishments.

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