NY A10758

Prohibits public assistance recipients from using benefits to purchase alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, or lottery tickets, with penalties including 1-month disqualification for first violation, 3-month disqualification for second violation, and permanent disqualification for third or subsequent violations.

Prohibits retail sellers from selling alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, or lottery tickets in exchange for public assistance benefits via electronic benefits transfer, with penalties of $100 fine for first violation, $500 fine for second violation within five years, and license suspension for third or subsequent violations within five years.

Requires retailers and employees to complete approved training programs on the prohibition, with the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance establishing criteria and issuing certificates of approval valid for three years; provides affirmative defense for business operators whose employees completed training.

Prohibits public assistance recipients from using electronic benefit transfer transactions to withdraw or access benefits at liquor stores, casinos, or adult entertainment facilities, with the same escalating disqualification penalties (1-month, 3-month, permanent).

Establishes the Public Assistance Integrity Fund to receive fines and fees from violations, with revenues dedicated to the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance for prevention, administration, oversight, training, and enforcement activities; effective February 22, 2014.