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Sponsor introduces RS to add photo ID to new EBT cards, citing fraud concerns
Summary
Representative Jordan Redmond introduced RS32096 to require photographic identification on new EBT (SNAP) cards and to direct the Department of Health & Welfare to develop a replacement strategy; committee members raised questions about federal funding, enforcement, and accommodations for disabled recipients.
Representative Jordan Redmond asked the committee to introduce RS32096, a proposal that would require the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare to place a photographic identification on new electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards and develop a strategy to replace current cards.
Redmond said the intent is to add accountability and reduce fraud and misuse, ensuring benefits reach those who applied for them rather than being sold or otherwise misused.
Committee members raised several questions. Representative Burnham asked whether SNAP benefits themselves are federally funded; Redmond clarified that the benefits funds come directly from the federal government, while administrative expenses are typically cost‑shared 50/50 between federal and state funds. Burnham then asked about enforcement: who would check IDs at point of sale and what penalties would apply if someone used another person’s card. Redmond said enforcement would rely on clerks or checkout personnel verifying identity, comparing the card photo to the shopper.
Representative Thompson asked how the policy would accommodate disabled individuals who cannot shop in person; Redmond said the issue could be handled through power of attorney or a declaration allowing another person to shop on their behalf.
Representative Wheeler moved to introduce RS32096 and asked the sponsor to prepare fiscal detail on card distribution and contingencies for individuals who cannot receive new ID cards. Representative Fuhrman asked about the process for making changes between introduction and full hearing; the chair explained the sponsor can agree to changes or bring a new RS for major changes.
The committee voted to introduce RS32096 by voice vote. The sponsor indicated department staff could prepare the waiver request referenced earlier for SNAP changes and said there would be no added general fund cost to request a waiver; no fiscal note for card replacement or implementation was presented at introduction.
