REQUIRE DHS TO APPLY ASSET TEST H.B. 5033 (S-1):
FLOOR SUMMARY
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House Bill 5033 (Substitute S-1 as reported)
Sponsor: Representative Dave Agema
House Committee: Families, Children, and Seniors
Senate Committee: Families, Seniors and Human Services
CONTENT
The bill would amend the Social Welfare Act to require the Department of Human Services to apply an asset test for the purposes of determining financial eligibility for the Family Independence Program or the Food Assistance Program administered under the Act.
Proposed MCL 400.10d Legislative Analyst: Patrick Affholter
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would not have a fiscal impact on either the State or local units of government. With the start of fiscal year 2011-12, the Department of Human Services (DHS) implemented a $5,000 asset limit on the Food Assistance Program. As of November 2011, 6,100 cases had been removed from the program due to the asset limit. Based on an average monthly benefit of $270, the asset test has resulted in Federal savings of at least $19.8 million to date. An asset test is already a requirement of the Family Independence Program, as well.
Date Completed: 3-26-12 Fiscal Analyst: Frances Carley
Analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent. hb5033/1112