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B 26-0367

Public Benefits Security Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Matt Frumin

The bill enhances public assistance security by replacing EBT cards with secure microchipped versions and ensures restoration of stolen benefits for vulnerable DC residents.

Law L26-0104, Effective from Mar 24, 2026 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 005738
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · B 26-0367

Summary of Bill B26-0367: Public Benefits Security Amendment Act of 2025

Introduction

The Public Benefits Security Amendment Act of 2025 (B26-0367) was introduced on September 24, 2025, by Councilmember Matthew Frumin. The bill aims to enhance the security of public assistance programs in the District of Columbia by addressing the issue of theft associated with electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards.

Purpose and Intent

The primary goals of B26-0367 are:
- Reduce Public Benefits Theft: The bill seeks to mitigate the theft of public assistance benefits, which has become a significant issue for residents relying on programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families).
- Transition to Secure EBT Cards: It mandates the transition from magnetic stripe EBT cards to more secure microchipped EBT cards (EMV technology) to prevent unauthorized transactions.

Key Provisions

  1. Transition to EMV Technology:

    • The Department of Human Services (DHS) is required to issue new EBT cards with EMV technology by October 1, 2027. This technology generates a unique, one-time code for each transaction, significantly reducing the risk of card skimming and cloning.

  2. Restoration of Stolen Benefits:

    • The bill mandates that DHS restore public assistance benefits to residents whose benefits are stolen. This provision aims to ensure that vulnerable residents are not left without support due to theft.
    • The restoration of stolen benefits will be subject to appropriations, allowing the agency to manage costs effectively.

  3. Implementation Timeline:

    • DHS has until October 1, 2027, to complete the transition to microchipped cards and to educate both retailers and beneficiaries about the new system.

Impact

  • Beneficiaries: The bill is expected to protect thousands of DC residents who rely on public assistance programs from the financial strain caused by benefit theft. In FY 2024 alone, over $2 million in SNAP benefits were reported stolen.
  • Department of Human Services: The legislation will require DHS to adapt its systems and processes to accommodate the new technology and ensure the restoration of stolen benefits.

Procedural Aspects

  • A public hearing on B26-0367 is scheduled for October 30, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. in Room 412 of the John A. Wilson Building and via Zoom. This hearing will allow the public to provide testimony regarding the bill.
  • The record for public testimony will close on November 13, 2025.

Conclusion

The Public Benefits Security Amendment Act of 2025 represents a significant step towards safeguarding public assistance programs in the District of Columbia. By transitioning to more secure EBT cards and ensuring the restoration of stolen benefits, the bill aims to protect the most vulnerable residents from the adverse effects of benefit theft.

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

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