HARRISBURG — After nearly four years of debate, three reforms introduced by Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) to reduce waste, fraud and abuse in Pennsylvania’s public assistance programs have been signed into law as part of the bipartisan 2025-26 state budget agreement.
“These reforms protect taxpayer dollars and ensure benefits go to the Pennsylvanians who truly need them,” Argall said. “Cracking down on waste, fraud and abuse is essential for these programs to run efficiently and serve their intended purpose.”
The first measure directs the Department of Human Services (DHS) to routinely check death records against its lists of public assistance recipients. A previous audit revealed more than 2,300 deceased individuals received more than $700,000 in benefits in a single year. The new law closes this loophole and prevents improper payments before they occur.
The second measure requires DHS to check wage records from employers and the Department of Revenue to ensure individuals receiving Medical Assistance and SNAP benefits qualify for these taxpayer dollars. Between 2019 and 2023, the Pennsylvania Office of State Inspector General filed more than 2,900 criminal complaints of welfare fraud totaling more than $15 million in restitution owed, demonstrating the urgent need for better oversight.
The third measure requires DHS to submit an annual report detailing how lottery winnings and the average equity value of vehicles were counted for cash assistance.
Argall emphasized that these reforms do not take away assistance — they safeguard resources for people in genuine need.
“This is great news for those who desperately need public assistance,” Argall said. “While my earlier efforts were opposed by many members of the Senate and the House, these measures were passed by overwhelming margins this time. Finally — a victory for common sense!”
All three reforms were approved in the Senate by a vote of 46-3 and the House by a vote of 199-4.
CONTACT: Seth Hubler