Bill > S08130

This bill amends the social services law to authorize the reissuance of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in instances of fraud or theft. Specifically, the bill establishes a protocol for replacing stolen SNAP benefits for recipients, allowing them to receive replacement assistance within five business days of reporting the theft. The replacement assistance will be equal to the lesser of the actual amount stolen or two months of the household's typical monthly benefit allotment. Recipients can receive this replacement benefit no more than once per fiscal year for SNAP benefits stolen after December 20, 2024. The bill requires social services districts to provide this replacement assistance without requiring recipients to obtain a police report, and the replacement benefits will be exempt from standard recoupment and recovery provisions. The legislation also provides that replacement assistance will only be granted if the theft resulted from fraudulent activities like card skimming, cloning, or third-party misrepresentation. Additionally, the bill directs the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance to create a model sign informing individuals about electronic benefit transfer scams and how to protect their benefits. These changes aim to provide more immediate support to SNAP recipients who have been victims of benefit theft while maintaining safeguards against potential misuse.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8130