Low-income families in Southern Oregon and across the country are feeling the effects of a recent federal policy change that ended the replacement of stolen Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The policy, which went into effect on December 21, 2024, has sparked concern among community members and advocacy groups who fear it will leave vulnerable families without a safety net in the event of theft.
Previously, SNAP recipients whose food benefits were stolen through electronic theft—such as card skimming or hacking—could apply for a replacement of their stolen funds. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) made the decision to discontinue this policy, citing administrative challenges and budgetary constraints. This change means that victims of theft are no longer eligible for reimbursements, leaving many to bear the financial burden of replacing stolen benefits themselves.
For families in Southern Oregon, the end of these reimbursements is creating new financial challenges. With food costs already on the rise, some households are struggling to stretch their monthly benefits to cover basic needs.
Several local food banks and nonprofit organizations report an uptick in inquiries from SNAP recipients seeking assistance. Many families are turning to these resources as a way to make up for stolen funds that are now irreplaceable under the new policy.
Advocacy groups in Oregon and nationwide have expressed strong opposition to the USDA’s decision. They argue that the elimination of benefit replacements disproportionately affects low-income families, who are already living paycheck to paycheck. Some have also called for increased protections against electronic theft targeting SNAP cards.
“This policy change punishes victims rather than addressing the root causes of the theft,” said Monica Alvarez, a spokesperson for the Oregon Food Bank. “The government has a responsibility to protect vulnerable families and ensure they have access to essential resources like food.”
In response to these concerns, some lawmakers at the state and federal levels have begun discussing potential solutions. Proposals include increased funding for anti-theft measures, such as enhanced security features for Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, and legislation to reinstate benefit replacements for theft victims.
As the community grapples with the impact of the policy change, organizations in Southern Oregon are stepping up to fill the gap. Churches, food pantries, and mutual aid groups are working to provide additional support for families at risk of food insecurity.
While the policy change has drawn significant criticism, the USDA has maintained its position, emphasizing the importance of addressing theft prevention at the source. For families in Southern Oregon, however, the immediate concern is finding ways to make ends meet in the absence of a safety net.
