Illinois: Proposal would Ban the Misuse of Welfare Benefits

Rep. John Cavaletto has heard all the stories about people using public aid in Illinois to get alcohol and tobacco, to play video poker, and even to make bail. He’s finally had enough. 

Cavaletto, a Republican, has introduced a proposal that would define exactly how Temporary Assistance for Needy Families can and cannot be used.

“I understand one person used their TANF card to (get) out of jail,” Cavaletto told Illinois Watchdog. “He was put in jail and within five hours he was out of jail, and he used his TANF card to bail out for $350.” 

He wants to limit purchases with cards to the essentials.

“I’m talking about milk and bread, and I’m talking about wholesome foods and vegetables, and baby diapers,” Cavaletto said. “The basic needs for survival.” 

TANF is a cash grant, usually delivered by a debit card. Unlike food stamps that have a defined list of acceptable products, TANF cash can — and often is — spent on items other forms of public aid cannot buy. 

Illinois’ Department of Human Services, which administers the TANF program, mentions only vague spending limits on its website. DHS states cash assistance is for “basic needs, such as food, clothing, housing, etc.”

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