The bill mandates the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) to submit an annual report detailing the number of recipients exempt from the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card photo requirement, as stipulated in Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 18, Section 2 (B)(s). The report must outline the reasons for these exemptions, which include individuals who are 60 years of age or older, disabled, blind, victims of domestic violence, and those with religious objections. Additionally, the report must comply with federal regulations that exempt heads of households who do not receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits on their own behalf.

The report includes specific data on exemptions as of November 30, 2024, highlighting the number of households exempted from the photo requirement across various programs, including SNAP, TAFDC, and EAEDC. Notably, the report indicates that individuals younger than 19, older than 59, and those who are disabled or victims of domestic violence are among the exempted groups. Furthermore, it recognizes a category for non-applicants, which includes caretakers of clients who cannot serve as heads of households, as mandated by the USDA-FNS. The report aims to ensure transparency and compliance with both state and federal laws regarding the EBT photo requirement.