Bill > HR6457

This bill amends the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to require Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards used in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to include a photograph of the authorized cardholder on the face of the card. The photograph must be taken within the previous ten years for adults and within five years for minors. The bill mandates that retailers verify the identity of the EBT card user by checking the photograph before completing a sale, ensuring that only the authorized cardholder can use the card. For households with multiple members authorized to access benefits, individual cards can be issued with each person's photo. The bill provides an exception for caregivers of minors, individuals with disabilities, and elderly individuals, allowing them to access benefits on behalf of the recipient. The Secretary of Agriculture is required to establish procedures for these accommodations and to update federal regulations within 18 months of the bill's enactment. The new requirements will take effect 18 months after the bill is enacted, giving states and retailers time to implement the changes. The primary goal of this legislation is to reduce fraud and ensure that SNAP benefits are used only by intended recipients.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6457/all-info