The commission must use a computerized matching system to compare certain benefit records with federal immigration information, protect shared information’s confidentiality, and file an annual report by October 1 each year.
Sec. 22.0292. INFORMATION MATCHING SYSTEM RELATING TO IMMIGRANTS AND FOREIGN VISITORS. (a) The commission shall, through the use of a computerized matching system, compare commission information relating to applicants for and recipients of supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits and financial assistance under Chapter 31 with information obtained from the United States Department of State and the United States Department of Justice relating to immigrants and visitors to the United States for the purpose of preventing individuals from unlawfully receiving public assistance benefits administered by the commission. (b) The commission may enter into an agreement with the United States Department of State and the United States Department of Justice as necessary to implement this section. (c) The commission and federal agencies sharing information under this section shall protect the confidentiality of the shared information in compliance with all existing state and federal privacy guidelines. (d) Not later than October 1 of each year, the commission shall submit to the governor and the Legislative Budget Board an annual report on the operation and success of the information matching system required by this section. The report may be consolidated with any other report relating to the same subject matter the commission is required to submit under other law. Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1153, Sec. 1.01(b), eff. Sept. 1, 1997. Renumbered from Sec. 22.0291 by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 62, Sec. 19.01(69), eff. Sept. 1, 1999. Amended by: Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1312 (S.B. 59), Sec. 71, eff. September 1, 2013. Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219), Sec. 4.031, eff. April 2, 2015. Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 856 (S.B. 800), Sec. 18, eff. September 1, 2021.