Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi Proposing New Welfare Fraud Legislation

Utica, NY (WIBX) - Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi is introducing legislation that will keep those who are abusing public assistance in check.

The lawmaker wants to prohibit the benefit withdrawals from ATMs found in casinos, liquor stores, and adult entertainment venues.

He says the proposed legislation is meant to control fraud while preventing wasteful spending of money that could go to others in need.

"I think people are outraged at some of the fraud that they've been reading about in the paper," Brindisi said. "Although the majority of New Yorkers who receive public assistance truly do deserve and have fallen on hard times, there are a few who are using the system."

Brindisi says there are currently no laws on the books protecting against the wrongful use of public assistance benefits. By using an ATM, those on welfare can use an Electronic Bank Transfer to receive their money.