Legislation unveiled on June 6 by U.S. Reps. David Valadao (R-CA) and Young Kim (R-CA) targets theft and fraud of the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system, which delivers government assistance such as SNAP and TANF through a debit-style card.
“SNAP is a critical lifeline that helps low-income families put food on their tables,” Rep. Valadao said. “Unfortunately, criminals exploit weaknesses in the EBT system by using skimming devices at grocery stores and gas pumps to steal benefits from those who need them most. It’s unacceptable.”
Rep. Valadao signed on as the lead original cosponsor with fellow cosponsor Rep. Kim to introduce the Stopping Klepto-card and Identity Misuse Act (SKIM) Act, H.R. 3810, which is sponsored by U.S. Rep. Vince Fong (R-CA).
According to the California Department of Social Services, more than $439 million in EBT benefits have been stolen since 2021, increasing from under $100,000 a month to over $10 million.
If enacted, H.R. 3810 would direct the U.S. Attorney General to coordinate federal, state, and local efforts against access device fraud, increase prison sentences for those using fake cards or ID-making tools, and require comprehensive best practices to help identify and prevent future fraud, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“Scammers exploiting the EBT system are the worst kind of evil, not only wasting taxpayer dollars but stealing vital benefits meant to help our most vulnerable,” Rep. Kim said. “The SKIM Act toughens penalties and strengthens law enforcement coordination to crack down on these bad actors, save taxpayer dollars, and ensure public assistance goes to those who actually need it.”
The measure has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Judiciary Committee.