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Bill

S 4807

Establishes Stolen SNAP Benefits Replacement Fund in Department of Treasury, requires DHS to replace stolen SNAP benefits from fund, and appropriates $20 million to AOC.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brian Stack

New Jersey bill creates $20M fund to replace stolen SNAP benefits, requiring DHS to restore lost food assistance to defrauded recipients.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 4807

Legislative bill overview

S 4807 creates a dedicated fund within the Department of Treasury specifically to reimburse individuals whose SNAP (food assistance) benefits have been stolen or fraudulently accessed. The bill requires the Department of Human Services to replace stolen benefits using this fund and appropriates $20 million in initial funding to support the program.

Why is this important

SNAP theft—whether through account compromise, card skimming, or identity fraud—directly reduces food security for vulnerable populations who depend on these benefits for basic nutrition. Currently, there may be no systematic mechanism to quickly restore stolen benefits, leaving affected individuals without recourse. This bill addresses a gap in consumer protection for low-income New Jersey residents.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: The $20 million appropriation represents a new state expense; critics may question whether this diverts resources from other priorities or if the amount is sufficient for actual theft volume
  • Fraud determination standards: The bill's language doesn't clarify how DHS will verify claims of theft versus legitimate spending disputes, potentially creating administrative challenges or eligibility disputes
  • Scope limitations: It's unclear whether the fund covers all forms of SNAP benefit loss (theft, system errors, account freezes) or only criminal theft, which could create inequitable outcomes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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