State Senate Approves EBT Fraud Bill

The state Senate approved HB 219, a bill which would establish guidelines to reduce the improper use of Electronic Benefit Transfer Cards (EBT) and cash benefits.

Restrictions for use include gambling, purchase of tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, lottery tickets, firearms, and adult entertainment, according to a press statement from state Senate Jeanie Forrester, R-Meredith, who proposed a similar bill previously.

“I am thankful that the Senate passed HB 219, which as amended, is the same version of my prime sponsored bill that passed by a bipartisan vote earlier this year in the Senate,“ she said. “ This bill increases taxpayer protections while reducing potential incidents of fraud related to the way EBT benefits are used.”

Last year alone, she noted, the state found more than $1 million worth of fraud for misuse of EBT benefits.

“When we spend taxpayer money to help those on public assistance, we have a responsibility to protect both the taxpayers and those receiving this critical assistance,” Forrester said. “This bill is an important measure which provides a clear understanding of how these benefits should be used.”