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Bill

SB 1183

Relating to electronic benefits transfer cards used by or for recipients of benefits under certain assistance programs.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Paul Bettencourt and 2 co-sponsors

SB 1183 modifies Texas EBT card rules for assistance recipients, likely adding restrictions or requirements affecting how 4 million SNAP and TANF beneficiaries access critical benefits.

Left pending in committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1183

Legislative bill overview

SB 1183 modifies regulations governing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards used for state assistance programs in Texas, including SNAP (food assistance) and TANF (cash assistance). The bill appears to establish new requirements or restrictions on how these cards can be used, managed, or monitored by recipients and benefit administrators.

Why is this important

EBT cards serve approximately 4 million Texans receiving government assistance. Any changes to their operation directly affect access to food, cash assistance, and other critical benefits for vulnerable populations, potentially impacting both recipients' ability to obtain necessities and state administrative costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Recipient privacy and surveillance: Proposed EBT restrictions often include tracking or limiting where/how benefits are spent, raising concerns about government overreach into personal spending choices
  • Access and equity: Stricter card regulations may inadvertently create barriers for elderly, disabled, or homeless individuals who rely on EBT, or those without stable addresses
  • Administrative burden and cost: Enhanced monitoring or new card requirements could increase state implementation costs while reducing efficiency in benefit distribution

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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