Gov. Gavin Newsom is highlighting a decline in public benefit thefts in California. Thefts from CalFresh and CalWorks programs dropped to over $4 million a month last fall, down from $20 million two years ago. Newsom credits anti-fraud technology like secure EBT cards for the reduction. The announcement came amid federal threats over fraud allegations. Thieves have used skimming devices to steal card numbers, exploiting the state's large social safety net. Critics argue the theft numbers may be underreported, as some victims don't file reports or receive full reimbursements.

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San Mateo County would lose an estimated $5.65 million in funding for its programs and services if the governor’s recently proposed budget get…