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NM Gov. Restricts Use Of Welfare Cards

Office of the Governor

A new state rule implemented by Gov. Susana Martinez's administration bars welfare recipients from using their cash assistance cards at gambling establishments, liquor stores and strip clubs.

The Albuquerque Journal reports that the rule took effect when it was published March 31 by the state Human Services Department.

The state House during the 2013 session approved a bill with the same restrictions on cash assistance cards, but the legislation died without a Senate vote.

Human Services Department spokesman Matt Kennicott says the administration decided to enact a rule rather than again seek legislation.

A 2012 federal law requires states to act to prevent the use of welfare cash assistance cards at gambling establishments, liquor stores and strip clubs or face a loss of some federal welfare dollars.

Information from the Albuquerque Journal.

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