GBPI - Georgia Budget and Policy Institute
09/26/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/26/2024 07:41
GBPI Applauds Extension of SNAP Replacement Benefits, Calls for Further Congressional Action
GEORGIA - In a pivotal decision today, Congress extended Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP) replacement benefits through December 20, 2024, as part of federal stopgap legislation. In 2022, Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act which included funding for SNAP replacement benefits. That provision was set to expire after September 30th of this year.
Across the U.S., scammers have stolen SNAP benefits from clients using skimming devices on card readers and other fraudulent means. Unlike traditional debit cards, Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards used by SNAP clients lack robust security protections, and victims of fraud are not guaranteed financial restitution.
According to Georgia's Division of Family and Children Services, more than 5,600 SNAP households were approved for replacement benefits between October 2023 and September 2024. The state paid out nearly $3 million in replacement benefits during that period.
If someone suspects their SNAP benefits have been stolen, replacement benefits can be applied for through the state's website: dfcs.georgia.gov/snap-food-stamps/benefits-replacement-request
Statement from Staci Fox, President and CEO, GBPI:
"Families struggling to put food on the table should never have to worry about scammers stealing their SNAP benefits. GBPI commends Congress for extending SNAP replacement benefits, a critical step that will allow victims of fraud to continue feeding their families and maintaining economic stability. We also urge leaders to make these replacement benefits permanent in upcoming funding legislation while working to enhance security for EBT cards to protect families from future fraud."
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Staci Fox
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