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.
By GEOFF MULVIHILL and MORGAN LEE Associated Press
About 40 million people could see food assistance disappear next month if the federal government shutdown continues. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has told states not to send the companies that issue debit cards for the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program November's information yet. And at least some states have stopped approving new applications for SNAP. It's possible that the government could find funding to keep the program going even if the shutdown continues, but at $8 billion a month, that would be a challenge. State officials say a pause in benefits would be a blow to families and the broader economy.
