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A 8197

Requires signage warning about EBT/SNAP skimming and mandates chip-enabled point-of-sale systems for SNAP transactions

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Alec Brook-Krasny and 2 co-sponsors

A-8197 requires SNAP retailers to display skimming warnings and process SNAP payments only on chip-enabled POS systems, boosting security and reducing fraud.

REFERRED TO SOCIAL SERVICES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 8197

Summary of New York Assembly Bill A-8197

Overview

Bill A-8197, introduced May 5, 2025, seeks to enhance security around SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) transactions by two main provisions: (1) requiring signage that warns about EBT/SNAP skimming, and (2) mandating chip-enabled point-of-sale (POS) systems for SNAP transactions. The bill is currently referred to the Social Services committee.

  • Bill Number: A 8197
  • Title: Requires signage warning about EBT/SNAP skimming and mandates chip-enabled point-of-sale systems for SNAP transactions
  • Status: Referred to Social Services
  • Introduced: May 5, 2025
  • Primary Sponsor: Michael Novakhov
  • Co-sponsors: Alec Brook-Krasny, Lester Chang

Purpose and Intent

  • Improve consumer awareness and reduce fraud related to EBT/SNAP skimming.
  • Modernize the processing infrastructure used for SNAP transactions to rely on chip-enabled technology, enhancing security and reducing vulnerabilities tied to older magstripe systems.

Key Provisions (as described in available information)

  • Signage on EBT/SNAP Skimming: Retailers participating in SNAP would be required to display warning signage about the risk of EBT/SNAP skimming.
  • Chip-Enabled POS for SNAP: SNAP transactions would be required to be processed using chip-enabled (EMV) point-of-sale systems.

Note: The full text would specify exact signage standards (e.g., size, placement, language) and the scope of “chip-enabled” requirements. Those details are not provided in the current summary.

Who Would Be Affected

  • SNAP retailers and merchants who participate in the SNAP program would need to comply with the signage requirement.
  • Retailers would also be subject to upgrading or ensuring their POS infrastructure supports chip-enabled transactions for SNAP.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction and Referral: The bill was introduced and immediately referred to the Social Services committee on May 5, 2025.
  • Next Steps: The committee would review, possibly amend, and, if approved, advance the bill toward floor consideration. Timeline beyond referral is not provided here.

Potential Impact and Considerations

  • Security Improvements: The EMV chip requirement and visible signage could deter skimming and improve the security of SNAP transactions.
  • Compliance Costs: Retailers may incur costs to upgrade POS systems to chip-enabled technology and to install required signage.
  • Administrative Oversight: The bill would likely designate a state agency (the Social Services department or equivalent) to oversee compliance and enforcement, though specific enforcement mechanisms are not detailed in the summary.

Additional Notes

  • This summary reflects the information publicly available in the bill’s current status and sponsor list. Full text would clarify definitions, exact compliance timelines, penalties, and enforcement processes.

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

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