U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) has introduced the Stopping Klepto-card and Identity Misuse Act (SKIM) Act, alongside Reps. Vince Fong (CA-20), David Valadao (CA-22), and Addison McDowell (NC-06). The proposed legislation aims to address issues of theft, fraud, and waste within the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system.
The EBT system, which is managed by state agencies under the supervision of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, provides government assistance through a debit-style card. However, these cards have increasingly become targets for fraudulent activities. According to data from the California Department of Social Services, over $439 million in EBT benefits have been stolen since 2021.
The SKIM Act seeks to combat this problem by directing the U.S. Attorney General to enhance coordination between federal, state, and local efforts against access device fraud. It also proposes increasing prison sentences for those using fake cards or ID-making tools and requires best practices to identify and prevent future fraud.
“Scammers exploiting the EBT system are the worst kind of evil,” said Congresswoman Kim. “The SKIM Act toughens penalties and strengthens law enforcement coordination.”
Congressman Fong added, “Criminals who steal from children, families, and the elderly must be held accountable.”
“SNAP is a critical lifeline that helps low-income families put food on their tables,” said Congressman Valadao. He noted that criminals use skimming devices at grocery stores and gas pumps to exploit weaknesses in the EBT system.
“If you’re skimming cards, you’re stealing, plain and simple,” stated Congressman McDowell. “This bill cracks down hard on criminals.”
Further details can be found in the full bill text.
