SNAP Anti-Theft and Victim Compensation Act of 2025

The SNAP Anti-Theft and Victim Compensation Act of 2025 (H.R. 3887), introduced in the House on June 10, 2025 by Representative Nunn of Iowa, would overhaul how theft of SNAP benefits is investigated, prosecuted, and compensated. The bill expands the Department of Agriculture Inspector General’s authority to coordinate multi-jurisdictional investigations into theft and fraud—including cyber-enabled theft such as skimming, phishing, and unauthorized access to electronic benefit transfer (EBT) systems—and to work with other federal, state, and local agencies as well as financial institutions. It also creates a framework for reimbursing households whose SNAP benefits are stolen, requires data collection and reporting on theft incidents, and imposes a civil penalty for theft of SNAP benefits equal to twice the value of the stolen benefits. Taken together, the provisions aim to deter theft, improve victim compensation, and bolster enforcement capabilities. Key elements include: (1) expanded investigative and coordination powers for the USDA Inspector General with authority to issue subpoenas and warrants and to collaborate with multiple agencies; (2) authorization for states to reimburse victims for stolen benefits using SNAP funds, with protections for current eligibility and monthly allotments and with ongoing Secretary guidance and data systems; (3) a new civil penalty for theft of SNAP benefits equal to twice the stolen value, enforceable administratively or in federal court; and (4) required regulations, technical assistance, and data reporting, with a future review of the reimbursement authority once secure payments are widely implemented.