NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Department of Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service announced a joint effort to crack down on SNAP trafficking.
SNAP is the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and supports those who need a little extra purchasing food for their families.
More than half a million Tennessee families rely on the program each year.
According to the DHS, trafficking refers to the buying, selling, or the attempt to buy or sell SNAP benefits in exchange for goods such as money, drugs or ammunition.
Under the new agreement, the DHS will have the authority to partner with local and state law enforcement to crack down on those who abuse the service.
“DHS is committed to being good stewards of taxpayer dollars and to addressing fraud, waste, and abuse in service with the intent to alleviate hunger and support food insecurity in Tennessee,” said DHS Commissioner Dr. Raquel Hatter. “The SLEB agreement is a collaborative approach to fighting SNAP trafficking, and we appreciate everyone’s involvement in this effort.”
The agreement also allows state and local law enforcement to use benefits to assist in cases.
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