Florida House Passes New Restrictions On Welfare
TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) — A bill that limits what items can be purchased with state welfare funds has passed in the Florida House.
Thursday, the House voted to prohibit welfare recipients from using debit-like electronic cards to access cash benefits at strip clubs, liquor stores, bars and gambling establishments.
The bill (HB 1401) that passed 92-23 also would prohibit recipients from using the cards out of state.
Opponents said that provision would put an unfair burden on people who live in border areas.
The House also voted 80-31 for a bill (HB 813) that would deny cash assistance and food stamps to people convicted of felony drug possession after July 1, unless they have completed a drug treatment program.
Both bills now go to the Senate where their chances are uncertain as similar measures are still in committee with only a week left in the 2012 legislative session.
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