The Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act of 2026 aims to modernize Ohio's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by requiring the use of chip-enabled electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards. The bill amends sections 5101.54 and 5101.542 of the Revised Code and enacts a new section, 5101.5411, which mandates that the Department of Job and Family Services adopt cybersecurity rules related to EBT cards and mobile payments within one year of the amendment's effective date. These rules must ensure that cybersecurity measures align with private sector security safeguards and federal requirements for payment cards. Additionally, the bill stipulates that all new EBT cards issued must be chip-enabled, and existing cards will be replaced as per the department's regular schedule.

The bill also includes provisions for appropriations to support the transition to chip-enabled EBT cards, allocating $2.25 million from the General Revenue Fund and $750,000 from the Federal Fund Group for fiscal year 2027. Furthermore, it establishes a mechanism on the department's website for SNAP benefit recipients to report fraudulent transactions. The existing sections 5101.54 and 5101.542 are repealed, and the act emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity in the administration of SNAP benefits.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5101.54, 5101.542
As Reported By House Committee: 5101.54, 5101.542
As Re-referred to House Committee: 5101.54, 5101.542
As Passed By House: 5101.54, 5101.542