Bill > S147

This bill amends an existing Massachusetts law to require the Department of Families and Children to promptly replace the full amount of financial assistance or nutrition benefits that have been stolen through electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card fraud. Specifically, the bill mandates replacement of stolen benefits in cases of card skimming, card cloning, or other fraudulent methods, including organized identity theft schemes. The replacement is contingent on the federal government failing to provide funds to cover the stolen benefits. To qualify for replacement, the theft must be reported to or identified by the Department following their established procedures for making and verifying replacement claims. This provision aims to protect vulnerable populations who rely on public assistance by ensuring they do not lose critical financial support due to fraudulent activities, and it fills a potential gap in federal reimbursement for stolen benefits.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S147