public aid / public assistance

The governor opposes the bill despite one of its pieces meeting a policy priority.

Oklahomans who meet certain income requirements can now apply for assistance paying their utility bills. It's part of a program that aims to keep the heat on during the winter's coldest months.

Texas officials say food stamp benefits, which go to 1.7 million children, would not be distributed in November under an extended shutdown.

Thirty-eight states already participate in the Summer EBT program, which gives eligible families $120 per child for the summer. Texas is set to administer it starting in 2027.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins gave a first-ever approval for a state to restrict what's covered by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program during a visit to Nebraska this week. Other states, including Kansas, Iowa and Indiana, are seeking similar waivers.

At least nine state employees have been fired after they were accused of compromising information on thousands of Texas Health and Human Services Commission users.