The Public Benefits Security Amendment Act of 2026 amends the District of Columbia Public Assistance Act of 1982 to enhance the security of electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards by requiring the Department of Human Services to issue updated cards that incorporate EMV technology, which generates a dynamic, one-time-use code for each transaction. Additionally, the bill introduces definitions for terms related to electronic theft, such as "cloning," "phishing," and "skimming," and establishes a framework for the restoration of stolen public benefits. If a recipient reports theft within six months and the Department confirms the loss was due to fraudulent means, they are entitled to restoration of up to two months of correctly issued public assistance.

Furthermore, the bill extends the operation of the Flexible Rent Subsidy Pilot Program under the Homeless Services Reform Act of 2005 by one year, moving the expiration date from September 30, 2026, to September 30, 2027. The provisions of the bill will take effect once the fiscal impact is included in an approved budget and financial plan, and the Department is authorized to implement rules to facilitate these changes.