Cassidy, Wyden, and Fetterman Introduce Enhanced Cybersecurity Act
Proposed Legislation Seeks to Safeguard SNAP Benefits from Criminal Exploitation
According to KLFY, U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, Ron Wyden, and John Fetterman are working together to introduce the Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act. This bill is focused on keeping Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits safe from cyber threats and theft. The SNAP Security goal is to make electronic benefit cards more secure addressing the issue that has allowed hackers and criminals to steal millions of dollars in SNAP benefits. The proposed legislation urges the U.S. Department of Agriculture to update its cybersecurity rules to make sure that criminals can’t easily steal SNAP benefits.
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Enhanced SNAP Security – Safeguard Benefits Against Exploitation
Senator Cassidy emphasizes that SNAP is meant to aid those facing food insecurity, not be exploited by criminals. The Enhanced SNAP Security for SNAP Act proposes steps like adding anti-fraud tech to SNAP cards, a grant program for small stores to upgrade to chip-capable payment machines, and chip-enabled SNAP cards within two years. States are urged to offer user-friendly interfaces for Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) accounts. The SNAP Security bill also recommends prompt, free replacements for stolen or malfunctioning SNAP cards within three days aiming to enhance cybersecurity and safeguard vulnerable populations relying on SNAP benefits for essential food support.