S.B. No. 1183 aims to enhance the security and identification features of electronic benefits transfer (EBT) cards used by recipients of financial assistance and supplemental nutrition assistance programs in Texas. The bill introduces new sections to the Government Code, specifically Sections 545.0058 and 545.0059. Section 545.0058 mandates that EBT cards display the recipient's name and photograph, a fraud hotline number, and a website for reporting fraud. It also outlines exemptions from the photograph requirement for certain individuals, such as those over 65, under 19, blind, disabled, victims of domestic violence, or homeless. The Department of Public Safety is tasked with providing photographs for this purpose.

Additionally, Section 545.0059 requires the Health and Human Services Commission to monitor and report annually on the frequency of EBT card replacement requests. The bill also amends the Transportation Code to allow the disclosure of photographic images to the Health and Human Services Commission for use on EBT cards. The implementation of these provisions is set to begin on September 1, 2026, with a full compliance deadline of August 31, 2028. The first report on card replacement requests is due by December 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 730.007 (Transportation Code 730)
Senate Committee Report: Transportation Code 730.007 (Transportation Code 730)
Engrossed: Transportation Code 730.007 (Transportation Code 730)