(A) Notwithstanding any provision of law or regulation to the contrary, in order to improve the timeliness of public assistance benefit deliveries, to maximize operational efficiencies, increase cost savings, and minimize fraud, the department of job and family services may contract with a third-party commercial consumer reporting agency, in accordance with the “Fair Credit Reporting Act,” 15 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq., for the purpose of assisting the department with eligibility determinations for supplemental nutrition assistance supplemental program benefits, benefits funded by the temporary assistance for needy families block grant, and unemployment compensation benefits. The department shall undertake efforts to incorporate real-time employment and income information into existing verification and eligibility determination procedures.

(B) No third-party vendor shall conduct pre-screening activities regarding supplemental nutrition assistance program applicants unless the vendor has entered into a pre-screening agreement with the department.