H.R.2242 - Eliminating Fraud and Improper Payments in TANF Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2242, the "Eliminating Fraud and Improper Payments in TANF Act," aims to amend Title IV of the Social Security Act. The goal is to measure and eliminate fraud and improper payments within the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. The bill mandates the application of the Payment Integrity Information Act of 2019 to state TANF programs and requires a report from the Secretary of Health and Human Services to Congress outlining a plan to reduce improper payments within 10 years.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased scrutiny and oversight of state TANF programs. States will be required to adhere to the Payment Integrity Information Act of 2019. This may result in reduced improper payments and more efficient use of TANF funds.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced fraud and improper payments in the TANF program.
- More efficient use of taxpayer dollars.
- Increased accountability and transparency in state TANF programs.
- Improved program integrity through the application of the Payment Integrity Information Act.
- A plan from the Secretary of HHS to reduce improper payments.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased administrative burden on states to comply with the Payment Integrity Information Act.
- Potential for reduced access to TANF benefits for eligible families due to stricter enforcement.
- Costs associated with implementing and maintaining compliance with the new requirements.
- The report to Congress may not lead to effective strategies for reducing improper payments.
- Potential for unintended consequences due to the complexity of the TANF program.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the efficiency and integrity of a social safety net program. Specifically, the preamble states the Constitution is intended to "promote the general Welfare". Congress has the power to legislate in areas concerning spending and programs related to the general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).