The proposed bill seeks to update current statutes by extending the Department of Economic Security (DES) for an additional four years, retroactive to July 1, 2026, and revising various programs under its administration. Key changes include new eligibility requirements for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits that mandate individuals to actively seek work and implement stricter verification processes for claims. The bill also requires hospitals accepting AHCCCS payments to collect and report patient citizenship status, enhancing the integrity of the system. For the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), the bill introduces requirements for independent verification of eligibility assessments from federally-facilitated exchanges and mandates regular reviews of member eligibility based on changes in circumstances. Additionally, the bill proposes updates to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by requiring DES to enter into data matching agreements to identify households with significant lottery or gambling winnings and prohibiting waivers of work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents. It sets a target for reducing the SNAP payment error rate and introduces provisions for the Director to seek waivers to restrict the purchase of noneligible foods with SNAP benefits. The bill also emphasizes the need for compliance with food purchase restrictions and establishes definitions for eligible and noneligible foods. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the efficiency, accountability, and integrity of public assistance programs in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-3026.21, 41-3030.27
House Engrossed Version: 41-3026.21, 41-3030.27