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Lawmakers introduce RS to add photo ID to new EBT cards, prompt questions on enforcement and cost
Summary
Representative Jordan Redmond introduced RS32096, directing the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to place photographs on new EBT cards to curb fraud; committee members raised questions about federal funding, enforcement at retail, accommodations for disabled beneficiaries and the fiscal note for card replacement.
Representative Jordan Redmond (District 3, Kootenai County) told the committee RS32096 would require the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to add a photographic identification to new EBT cards and develop a strategy to replace current cards.
"The intent of this legislation is put accountability and reduce fraud and misuse within our SNAP program," Redmond said, arguing the change would help ensure SNAP benefits are used by authorized recipients.
Members pressed for implementation details. Representative Burnham asked whether SNAP benefits are federally funded; after an exchange Redmond clarified: "I apologize, you're correct. So the funding for the expense of the program is fiftyfifty. However, the funds are directly from the federal government." Committee members asked who would enforce photo checks at retail, whether clerks would verify IDs, and what the penalties would be for misuse. Redmond said enforcement would be similar to other ID‑check processes and that the sponsor’s intent was to reduce misuse and transactions of cards for nonbenefit purposes.
Representative Thompson asked about disabled beneficiaries who cannot shop in person; Redmond suggested use of power of attorney declarations as one way to authorize another person to use the card.
Representative Wheeler moved to introduce RS32096. Members asked the sponsor to bring detailed fiscal estimates — including the cost to reissue cards and the portion of the fiscal note tied to distribution — to the full hearing. The motion to introduce passed by voice vote and RS32096 was introduced for further committee consideration.
