Calling upon Local, State, and Federal Law Enforcement as well as the United States Department of Agriculture and Department of Human Services to investigate and prevent Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) fraud for those in the City of Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides critical support to millions of low-income families, ensuring that children and adults receive the nutrition they need to thrive academically and maintain good health; and

WHEREAS, In 2022, the State raised the income eligibility for SNAP from 265% of the federal poverty income to 200%, expanding the eligible population in Pennsylvania by 420,000 residents and further emphasizing the need for equitable distribution practices; and

WHEREAS, In March of this year, Pennsylvania officials warned residents of potential scam targeting individuals who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits; and

WHEREAS, SNAP fraud undermines the integrity of the program, diverting resources away from those who genuinely need assistance, thereby exacerbating food insecurity and its associated health and educational challenges; and

WHEREAS, The transition from paper stamps to Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards was intended to reduce fraud and improve efficiency, yet it has also led to concerns about increased surveillance and the criminalization of poverty; and

WHEREAS, Ensuring the effective and fair administration of SNAP is essential to maintaining public trust and ensuring that benefits reach the intended recipients. Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) should have the autonomy to choose how they receive and use their benefits. This flexibility could take the form of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT), traditional food stamps, or cash. Providing SNAP recipients with options respects their dignity and autonomy while acknowledging that different formats for benefits might suit different recipients; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby call upon local, state, and federal law enforcement as well as the United States Department of Agriculture and Department of Human Services to investigate and prevent SNAP fraud for those in the City of Philadelphia.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to the relevant law enforcement agencies, legislative bodies, and community organizations to initiate the recommended actions and promote a more just and effective SNAP program.

End