H.R. 8028: SNAP Fraud Reporting Act of 2026 (119th Congress) Bill Summary

This bill, titled the SNAP Fraud Reporting Act of 2026, aims to enhance the collection and reporting of data related to fraud in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is a federal assistance program providing food benefits to low-income individuals and families.

Key Provisions of the Bill

1. Initial Data Submission by States

Within 180 days of the bill becoming law, each state will be required to submit data to the Secretary of Agriculture regarding fraud that occurred in SNAP for the most recent five fiscal years. This data must include:

The number of fraud cases open for investigation.
The total number of identified fraud cases, with specifics on the types of fraud, such as card skimming and cloning, and the total dollar amount associated with these fraud cases.
The number and types of enforcement actions taken against SNAP fraud.
The amount recovered from these fraudulent cases.
Data on disqualifications for fraud involving deceased individuals or misuse of deceased individuals' identities, detailing both the number of cases and the dollar amounts involved.
Data on disqualifications for fraud cases where individuals submitted no Social Security number or used fabricated, recycled, stolen, or purchased Social Security numbers, along with the corresponding financial amounts.

2. Ongoing Data Submissions

Every year, starting with fiscal years after the bill's enactment, states must submit similar data to the Secretary of Agriculture no later than 60 days after October 1 of each year. This ensures ongoing tracking and reporting of SNAP-related fraud.

3. Penalties for Non-Compliance

If a state fails to provide the required data by the specified deadlines, the Secretary of Agriculture has the authority to withhold administrative funds related to SNAP from that state until the data is received.

4. Reporting to Congress

After receiving the initial data submissions from states, the Secretary of Agriculture must publish a report to Congress within 180 days that includes the findings based on this data. Subsequent reports will follow the same timeline, providing updates based on the latest annual data collected, thereby promoting accountability and transparency in the management of SNAP.