WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a new directive requiring all states to provide full access to records related to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This measure, administered by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), seeks to improve oversight of the program, reduce waste, and combat fraud while ensuring that only eligible participants receive benefits.
The initiative aligns with Executive Order 14243, signed by President Trump on March 20, 2025, which mandates federal agency leaders to eliminate data silos by ensuring comprehensive access to information from state-administered, federally funded programs. SNAP, a program that supports millions of Americans, has operated for years without real-time federal visibility into its operations due to separate records maintained at the state level and by electronic benefits transfer (EBT) processors.
“President Trump is rightfully requiring the federal government to have access to all programs it funds,” said Secretary Rollins. “SNAP is no exception. For years, this program has been on autopilot, with no USDA insight into real-time data. The Department is focused on appropriate and lawful participation in SNAP, and today’s request is one of many steps to ensure SNAP is preserved for only those eligible.”
Enhancing Program Integrity
The USDA’s directive forms part of a broader federal initiative to strengthen program integrity and enforce lawful participation in government-funded programs. By gaining complete access to SNAP records, the FNS aims to identify and resolve cases of improper payments, ineligible enrollees, and any inefficiencies that may result in the misuse of federal funds.
According to officials, this comprehensive data-sharing effort will also help ensure that benefits are allocated to those who are genuinely eligible, reinforcing the program’s mission to provide food security for low-income individuals and families.
Bridging Data Silos
Under the current system, key information about SNAP participants, retailers, and transactions is often siloed between state governments, EBT processors, and other entities involved in program administration. The new guidance marks a significant step toward overcoming these barriers, granting the federal government real-time insights into program operations. USDA leaders emphasize that such visibility is crucial to maintaining the accuracy and reliability of SNAP’s administration.
Implications for Administration and Oversight
The USDA’s decision has the potential to transform the administration of SNAP and other federally funded programs. By prioritizing transparency and accountability, the directive may pave the way for more efficient use of taxpayer dollars while preserving the integrity of critical public assistance programs.
At the same time, the transition to comprehensive federal oversight raises questions about how states and other entities will adapt their systems to meet the new requirements. The success of this initiative will likely depend on seamless collaboration between federal and state agencies, as well as compliance from third-party processors and other stakeholders.
The SNAP program serves as a lifeline for millions of Americans, and the USDA’s move to increase transparency underscores its commitment to ensuring these resources reach their intended recipients. With these reforms, the Department aims to build a stronger, more accountable foundation for the nation’s largest food assistance program.
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