Pennsylvania has declined—for now—to share detailed SNAP data with the federal government, citing concerns over privacy, operational feasibility, and security. The decision places more than $365 million in monthly benefits for over 2 million residents at risk, amid pressure from the Trump administration to comply with a new federal data-sharing mandate.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture requested states begin transmitting personal data on food stamp recipients—including Social Security numbers, citizenship, and marital status—by July 30 as part of a nationwide fraud-prevention initiative. Critics say the data could be used for non-SNAP enforcement and law enforcement access, prompting privacy and surveillance concerns.
In a letter obtained by Pennsylvania Capital-Star, state Deputy Secretary Hoa Pham told the USDA’s senior policy advisor that Pennsylvania is reviewing what’s required to move forward “in a way that ensures appropriate safeguards.”
The USDA has paused full implementation due to legal challenges. At least 21 states and D.C. are suing to block the directive. Pennsylvania is not among them, but nearby states like Maryland and New Jersey are involved.
The USDA and DOJ have declined to clarify next steps or confirm which states met the deadline.
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