Bill > S00403

This bill establishes a new compensation program and fund to help victims of fraud in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, commonly known as food stamps) and cash assistance programs. The Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance will create an application process available in multiple languages to help people who have had their benefits stolen or fraudulently taken. The bill creates a dedicated fund that will be jointly managed by the state comptroller and the office, which can receive money from appropriations, civil penalties, government grants, and other contributions. The inspector general and attorney general will work together to investigate potential cases of fraud or theft. The fund will be used exclusively to compensate program participants who have lost benefits through fraudulent means, with an initial appropriation of $1.5 million. The application process will be accessible to ensure that victims from diverse language backgrounds can seek compensation, and the fund is designed to provide a safety net for vulnerable individuals who rely on these critical social support programs.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S403