New Food Share Bill Could Cut Down on Fraudulent Use
By Raquel Lamal. CREATED Sep 16, 2015
Next on a bill that would make it harder to commit Food Stamp fraud.
The Republican-backed plan in the State Legislature would require photo IDs on Food Share cards in Wisconsin, but there is opposition from state Democrats.
Now some local representatives are weighing in on the bill.
It’s no secret that fraud does occur within the state’s Food Share program but now supporters of this bill are trying to make it more difficult for people to abuse the system and easier for those in need to get help.
At Manna for Life Food Pantry and Thrift Store, manager Chad Clements says he knows all too well about the importance of checking identification.
“We ask for a photo ID,” – Chad Clements.
The food pantry is required by law to check a person’s ID making sure they qualify for the free help.
Clements feels those on food stamps shouldn’t be treated any differently.
“Having that extra form of security where you have your name and picture right on that card that’s going to prevent a lot of that theft and fraud,” - Chad Clements.
Fraud Republican Representative André Jacque says this is becoming a problem.
“It’s fairly substantial when you have you know between a million and a million and a half dollars uncovered each year in fraud just by our Brown County Sheriff’s Department,” – André Jacque.
But, state Democrats aren’t on board saying it would waste $7.4 million in taxpayer money.
"You think about how you go to the grocery store, these cards are the same way nobody else actually handles it to see that and so again that's why for the most part this would do nothing," - Rep. Amanda Stuck.
The vote on this bill is expected to take place in the coming weeks.
Now André Jacque says this bill would not impact those over 65 or under 16. They would be exempt from the photo ID bill if it were to pass.