The bill, S.B. No. 1183, introduces new requirements for electronic benefits transfer (EBT) cards used by recipients of financial assistance and supplemental nutrition assistance programs in Texas. It mandates that the front side of each EBT card display the name and photograph of the recipient or an authorized person, along with a "Fraud Hotline" number and a website address for reporting suspected fraud. The Department of Public Safety is tasked with providing the necessary photographs, and certain exemptions from the photograph requirement are established for specific groups, including individuals over 65, those under 19, and victims of domestic violence, among others.

Additionally, the bill requires the Health and Human Services Commission to monitor and report the frequency of EBT card replacement requests, with the first report due by December 1, 2026. The implementation of the new EBT card requirements will not begin until September 1, 2026, with a full compliance deadline set for August 31, 2028. The bill also includes a provision allowing state agencies to delay implementation if federal waivers or authorizations are needed.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 730.007 (Transportation Code 730)