Nancy Mace targets fraud with bill to require photo on SNAP EBT cards
In a decisive move aimed at combating fraud within the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Republican Representative Nancy Mace from South Carolina has introduced a bill that mandates the inclusion of a photo on Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. The proposed legislation seeks to enhance accountability and ensure that only eligible individuals access these essential benefits. Mace expressed her concerns about taxpayer dollars being misused, stating, “Taxpayers have had enough of watching their hard-earned dollars abused by people with no legal right to these benefits.” Her straightforward approach advocates for a system where, if a person qualifies for SNAP, their photo will be affixed to the card, thereby preventing misuse by unauthorized individuals, including fraudsters and those borrowing cards unlawfully.
The bill, which has garnered support from fellow Republican Representatives Lauren Boebert and Barry Moore, outlines specific requirements for the EBT cards. Each card would need to display a photographic image of the authorized cardholder, taken within the last ten years, or within the previous five years for minors. Additionally, the measure stipulates that retailers must verify the identity of customers using EBT cards by checking the photograph before completing any transactions. This initiative not only aims to reduce fraudulent activities but also ensures that food assistance reaches those who genuinely need it. Importantly, the proposal includes provisions for caregivers, allowing them to access benefits on behalf of minors, individuals with disabilities, or elderly recipients, thus maintaining a level of support for those who require assistance in managing their benefits.
As Mace continues her tenure in the House of Representatives while also campaigning for the governorship of South Carolina, her focus on this bill highlights a broader Republican agenda to tighten regulations around welfare programs. The introduction of this legislation comes on the heels of previous changes to SNAP requirements initiated during the Trump administration, which also aimed to address concerns about program integrity. With the ongoing debate surrounding social welfare and government spending, Mace’s proposal is likely to stir discussions about the balance between providing necessary support to vulnerable populations and safeguarding taxpayer funds. As such, this legislation could serve as a significant point of contention in future discussions about food assistance programs in the United States.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdLzyOjLmKs
In a bid to
cut down on fraud
, Republican Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina has introduced a bill to require inclusion of a photo on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) EBT cards.
“Taxpayers have had enough of watching their hard-earned dollars abused by people with no legal right to these benefits,” Mace said, according to a
press release
.
“This isn’t complicated, if you’re eligible for SNAP, your photo goes on the card and you’re the only one who uses it. Not fraudsters, not criminals, not someone borrowing a card they have no right to use. This is basic common sense, fairness, and protecting taxpayers and the American families who truly need food assistance,” she added.
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Congress.gov
lists GOP Reps. Lauren Boebert of Colorado and Barry Moore of Alabama as original cosponsors of the proposal.
“Each Electronic Benefit Transfer card issued to a household or individual under this chapter shall include on the face of the card a photographic image taken within the previous ten years, or in the case of a minor taken within the previous five years, of the authorized cardholder to whom the card is issued,” the measure declares.
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“As a condition of authorization to accept or redeem benefits under this chapter, a retail food store or wholesale food concern, before making a sale, shall demand to see, and shall inspect, the photograph located on an Electronic Benefit Transfer card for every customer using an Electronic Benefit Transfer card to ensure the purchaser is entitled to utilize or redeem benefits under this chapter,” another portion of the measure reads.
The
proposal
leaves room for accommodations to enable caregivers to tap benefits on behalf of benefit recipients.
“The Secretary shall establish procedures for reasonable accommodations to allow caregivers of a minor, individual with disabilities, or an elderly individual to access benefits on behalf of a recipient in their care,” the measure notes.
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Mace, who has served in the House of Representatives since 2021, is currently running for
Palmetto State
governor.
