SB 1183 – Photo ID on EBT cards

SB 1183 seeks to reduce welfare fraud by requiring that Texas EBT cards used for food and cash assistance include a photo ID, the fraud hotline number, and the website for reporting misuse. By visually identifying the authorized cardholder, this bill helps deter unauthorized use and ensures that taxpayer-funded benefits go to legitimate recipients. The bill also mandates the Health and Human Services Commission to track unusual patterns in card replacements—a known indicator of fraud. This measure adds a common-sense safeguard to protect taxpayer funds, reinforce personal responsibility, and minimize abuse. SB 1183 is a targeted step toward improving the integrity of government benefit programs.