May. 13, 2025
HARRISBURG – The House Human Services Committee, chaired by Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon), today advanced legislation that would require a study on the feasibility of implementing chip-enabled electronic benefit cards (EBT) for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
“Many food stamp recipients are falling victim to skimming devices, which allow thieves to steal their benefits, as current EBT cards do not have chip security technology,” Heffley said. “We must remember, first and foremost, these are public dollars given to people in their time of need. We need to protect this money and make sure it is not wasted. Any monetary loss can have a significant effect on recipients and the government. By implementing chip-enabled cards, the chances of skimming is greatly reduced.”
House Bill 1429, which is prime sponsored by Rep. Dan Williams (D-Chester) and Heffley, would require the Department of Human Services (DHS) to prepare a report evaluating the financial impact, operational feasibility and implemental considerations for converting EBT cards to chip-enabled cards for SNAP benefits. The bill also would require DHS to develop a proposed timeline for implementation. The report would be due within 30 days of the bill being signed into law.
California has implemented chip-enabled EBT cards. Alabama, Oklahoma, Maryland and New Jersey are moving to the cards. Due to these changes, border states must be prepared to accept chip-enabled EBT cards.
The bill now goes to the full House for consideration.
Representative Doyle Heffley
122nd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Huntre Keip
717.772.9837
hkeip@pahousegop.com
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