The Missouri House has passed a bill that would require the state to seek a federal waiver to put photo IDs on electronic benefits cards.
Electronic benefits transfer cards are how welfare recipients access both their cash assistance and food stamp benefits. If the federal government grants the waiver, electronic benefits cards would need a photo ID for all recipients age 16 and older so they can remain eligible for food stamps.
Implementing photo identification for electronic benefits cards is projected to cost about $500,000, according to the Department of Social Services.
The House voted 120-35 to send the measure to the Senate Wednesday. It would also prohibit welfare recipients from spending cash benefits at casinos, liquor stores and adult entertainment establishments.
