Texas Launching Statewide Finger
Imaging System
****Texas Launching Statewide Finger Imaging
System 09/29/97 AUSTIN, TEXAS, U.S.A., 1997
SEP 29 (NB) -- By Justine Kavanaugh. The Texas
Department of Human Services (DHS) is launching
a statewide finger imaging system to help fight fraud
in the state's welfare programs. The system, called the Lone Star
Image System, will compare electronic finger print images to
determine if AFDC clients are collecting double welfare benefits using
false identities.
Under a three-year, $12.7 million contract, North American Morpho
Systems will provide DHS with hardware, software, training and
maintenance of the finger imaging technology. The Texas Legislature
recently approved funding for the system after the completion of a
successful pilot in Bexar and Guadalupe counties involving
approximately 20,000 AFDC households and 65,000 Food Stamp
households. The expanded system is expected to be implemented statewide by the end of 1998.
Under the new system, Texans who wish to collect benefits from the state will be required to submit
to finger imaging of both index fingers as well as a photograph. Finger images will then be compared
using a computer each time a client shows up to collect a check.
DHS Commissioner Eric M. Bost says the technology will help ensure more financial help is
available to families who truly need it. "Taxpayers spend $2.4 billion annually on the food stamp and
AFDC programs in Texas," he said. "Most of the two million recipients of the aid are honest. But the
public has a right to expect that every step is taken to ensure our dollars only go to deserving
families." |
