[§346-53.2]  Temporary assistance for needyfamilies; funding and programs; public comment.  (a)  The department, tothe extent allowed under section 346-10, shall make all data relating totemporary assistance for needy families funds available to the senate and houseof representatives committees having primary jurisdiction over fiscal, health,and human services issues, upon request.  The committees shall jointly evaluatethe implementation of the state temporary assistance for needy [families]program and program expenditures and make annual recommendations forappropriations.

(b)  The legislature may conduct hearings toreceive public comment relating to the implementation of the state temporaryassistance for needy families program and the optimal expenditure of programfunds.  The legislature shall determine the number and timing of hearings to beheld; provided that if hearings are held, no fewer than one hearing oneach island of the State shall be held annually; provided further that the senateand house of representatives committees having primary jurisdiction overfiscal, health, and human services matters shall jointly conduct the publichearings. [L 2005, c 165, §2]