H.R. 2242: Eliminating Fraud and Improper Payments in TANF Act

This bill, known as the "Eliminating Fraud and Improper Payments in TANF Act," aims to improve the integrity of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program by addressing issues related to fraud and improper payments. Below are the key points of the bill:

Strengthening Payment Integrity

The bill proposes the following changes to enhance payment oversight:

• Applicability of Payment Integrity Laws: The Payment Integrity Information Act of 2019 will apply to states in a similar manner as it applies to federal agencies. This means that states will be held accountable for monitoring and reporting improper payments in their TANF programs.
• Effective Date: The new requirements will take effect on October 1, 2026, allowing states time to adjust to the new regulations.
• Reporting Requirements: The Secretary of Health and Human Services will be required to submit a report to Congress within one year of the bill's enactment. This report will outline a plan to reduce or eliminate improper payments made by states under TANF over a span of ten years.

Goals of the Bill

The overarching goal of the bill is to:

• Identify and reduce the number of improper payments made by states under the TANF program.
• Enhance transparency and accountability in how states manage TANF funds.
• Protect taxpayer dollars by minimizing waste and fraud within the welfare system.

Impact on States

States will need to develop and implement processes to track and report improper payments as mandated by the new federal standards. This may involve:

• Improving data collection and reporting systems.
• Training staff to recognize and prevent fraud.
• Collaborating with federal agencies to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Conclusion

The bill seeks to improve the effectiveness of the TANF program, ensuring that assistance reaches those who are truly in need while minimizing fraud and improper payments.

Relevant Companies

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