S. 3856: SNAP Data Transparency and Oversight Act of 2026

This bill, known as the SNAP Data Transparency and Oversight Act of 2026, aims to amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008. The primary objective is to require state agencies to provide detailed data about recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to the Secretary of Agriculture when requested.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• Data Provision Requirement: Each state agency administering SNAP must provide recipient-level data and case file information to the Secretary of Agriculture upon request. This includes program data necessary for the oversight and enforcement of SNAP.
• Data Transmission: The data must be transmitted according to the specifications set by the Secretary, including secure electronic methods.
• Response Timeframe: States are required to deliver the requested data within 30 days of the request, unless the Secretary specifies a shorter timeframe for urgent needs.
• Consequences of Noncompliance: If a state fails to comply with the data request, the Secretary has the authority to withhold or suspend funding allocated to that state under the Food and Nutrition Act.
• Data Privacy Safeguards: The bill mandates that any recipient data collected must be handled in accordance with federal privacy laws, ensuring the security and confidentiality of the information. The data can also be disclosed to law enforcement for the purpose of administering and enforcing the SNAP program and related laws.
• Existing Authorities Maintained: The bill clarifies that it does not limit the existing powers of the Secretary to access state data for oversight, audit, or evaluation purposes.

Relevant Companies

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