Watch CBS News

Mass. And Feds To Investigate SNAP Fraud Allegations

BOSTON (AP) — State and federal welfare officials are announcing a new effort to investigate allegations of trafficking in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe reports

Mass. And Feds To Investigate SNAP Fraud Allegations

Massachusetts Secretary of Health and Human Services John Polanowicz and Department of Transitional Assistance Commissioner Stacey Monahan are joining Monday with U.S. Department of Agriculture official James Arena-Derosa to announce the agreement.

The federal SNAP program was formerly known as food stamps.

Officials say the agreement will strengthen program integrity and protect benefits for those who need them.

It stems from a plan developed by state welfare officials earlier this year after reports pointed to widespread fraud and waste in public benefits programs.

Under new state rules, welfare officials will contact recipients of federal SNAP benefits who have balances greater than $5,000 to ensure they still need the benefits.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.