Tennessee State Rep. Andy Holt (R-Dresden) introduced legislation that will require able-bodied, job ready Tennessee citizens  to prove they have been searching for a job before receiving certain welfare benefits. Benefits applicants will be required to apply for at least three separate jobs and provide verifiable documentation of their job applications to the State the week before applying for benefits, or within two weeks of applying for benefits.

“We’re seeing a lot of welfare abuse in the State of Tennessee, and something has to be done about it. During the recession, the federal government vastly extended welfare benefits. Today, many people are still receiving benefits that shouldn’t be,” said Holt. “This abuse has taken resources away from people who actually need help, and is a massive burden to Tennessee tax-payers.”

Currently, benefits recipients are required to work at least twenty hours a week, or provide at least 20 hours of community service, or participate in the state’s Employment & Training Program. Holt hopes that his legislation will add an extra layer of accountability and encourage more people to enter the workforce faster.

In order to continue receiving benefits, Holt’s legislation (HB2512) will require on-going verifiable documentation of at least three new job applications being submitted to the State every 30 days. State Senator Mark Green (R-Clarksville) will carry the Senate version of the bill.