S1465

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday to implement chip technology on EBT cards used for SNAP and public assistance benefits, aiming to prevent fraud that has cost New Yorkers $40 million in stolen benefits since 2022. Senate Print 1465, sponsored by Sen. Serrano, requires the state to equip EBT cards with the same chip technology already standard on credit cards by June 21, 2027. The measure passed on a 53-0 roll call vote. Supporters, including Sens. Murray and Krueger, argued that chip technology effectively prevents fraud at point-of-sale and is particularly critical for vulnerable populations who can least afford to lose benefits. The federal government will cover 50% of implementation costs, estimated at $20-40 million. Senators urged state departments to complete the transition faster than the statutory deadline, with Sen. Krueger noting the technology has proven effective in the private sector and calling for gubernatorial support to accelerate the timeline.