State Representatives Marvin Lim, Karen Lupton, and David Wilkerson have formally requested that the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts (DOAA) conduct a comprehensive audit of the state’s Federal Eligibility Benefit Services administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS). The request follows concerns about current DHS systems and new administrative requirements stemming from federal H.R. 1.
The letter submitted to the State Auditor cites DOAA’s responsibilities under O.C.G.A. § 50-6-24. Lawmakers are responding to both constituent feedback and anticipated impacts from changes in federal policy.
Rep. Lim stated, “Our constituents deserve systems that are clear, accessible and efficient. Too many Georgians continue to face challenges navigating Gateway and other DHS platforms just to access the benefits they are eligible for. With the added administrative pressures created by H.R. 1, this audit is an opportunity to identify improvements that both reduce red tape and ensure taxpayers get the most value from the dollars we appropriate.”
Rep. Lupton highlighted concerns over future state budgets: “As lawmakers, we have a responsibility to ensure the state is prepared for the increased administrative burdens that H.R. 1 imposes – especially the reductions in federal SNAP funding and new redetermination requirements for Medicaid. These changes will significantly impact Georgia’s budget operations in the coming years. A thorough transparent audit will help us better understand where the system is strained and how we can strengthen it going forward.”
Rep. Wilkerson pointed out existing vulnerabilities: “H.R. 1 places major new costs on states, and Georgia is already at risk because of its high SNAP eligibility error rate. If we don’t address these administrative challenges now, the financial consequences could be substantial. This audit will give us the data we need to improve accuracy, reduce unnecessary expenditures and ensure Georgia is in the best possible position when these federal changes take effect.”
The lawmakers specifically asked DOAA to examine SNAP-related administrative costs, measures for reducing error rates in benefit eligibility determinations, as well as decisions made through Georgia Pathways to Coverage under H.R. 1.
According to their statement, for Fiscal Year 2026 Georgia legislators allocated $447 million toward these services, with $162 million coming from state funds.
Burns has served as a Republican representative for Georgia’s 159th House District since his election in 2005, succeeding Ray Holland.
The full text of their letter is available online.
