Reps. Rader, Deeter Introduce Legislation Protecting SNAP Recipients, Continues Fight on Food Insecurity

COLUMBUS – State Reps Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood) and Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk) today introduced the “Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act of 2025.” This critical piece of bipartisan legislation would help protect Ohio’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients from the growing issue of electronic theft and fraud. According to the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services (ODJFS), from June 2023 to January 2025, almost $17 million in SNAP benefits have been stolen in Ohio. 

“As someone who used to work at Ohio’s foodbanks, I know firsthand what food insecurity looks and feels like in Ohio,” said Rep. Rader. “Because of skimming devices, bad actors are stealing directly from the plates of Ohioans most in need. By implementing chip technology in our SNAP cards, we will give families and individuals another layer of defense, protecting their right to health, nutritious food. Let’s stop these criminals in their tracks and show Ohio is a step ahead of the rest.”

 This legislation would address the growing issue of theft by requiring Ohio’s SNAP program to transition to chip-enabled Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which are already widely used in the private sector and are effective at preventing this form of fraud. If enacted, ODJFS would be required within two years to replace all existing SNAP EBT cards, as well as provide recipients a direct way to report fraudulent transactions. 

The USDA Food and Nutrition Service reimburses states 50% of the cost of transition to chip-enabled EBT cards, allowing Ohio’s share to be only $5.3M. By following in the footsteps of Oklahoma and Maryland, we can help prevent future theft and fraud for only a third of what the government has spent thus far to reimburse victims. 

This legislation currently awaits a bill number and referral to a House committee. It was introduced with 25 co-sponsors, showing wide support. Reps. Rader and Rep. Deeter also plan to submit this as a state operating budget amendment as well. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: Pictures of Reps. Rader and Rep. Deeter introducing this legislation are attached to this press release. Courtesy: Rep. Rader’s office.