June 3, 2013 -- During Wednesday’s Oregon House of Representatives floor session, Rep. Gail Whitsett (R-Klamath Falls) called for a vote on a bill to require the Department of Human Services to ensure that electronic benefits transfer cards can’t be used to purchase pre-paid credit cards.
“A recent audit by the Secretary of State’s Office revealed that the state does a poor job of maintaining the integrity of its human services programs,” Rep. Whitsett said. “It’s critical that the public’s limited resources go to those who need them, and not be subjected to waste, fraud and abuse.”
Rep. Whitsett’s motion would have brought House Bill 3322 before the full House for a vote. However, that motion was defeated on a party-line vote.
“It’s unfortunate that my colleagues in the Legislature won’t get the chance to vote on this bill,” Rep. Whitsett said. “This is exactly the kind of common sense measure we need to ensure that needy Oregonians are aided by state programs in an effective and efficient manner.”
Click here to watch a video of Rep. Whitsett’s remarks on the House floor.
