Part 4/13:
Efforts are also underway to prevent illegal immigrants from receiving federal benefits, including SNAP. The USDA programs are under scrutiny, and investigations aim to identify and terminate benefits to those who do not qualify—primarily non-citizens who might exploit loopholes. Several states, especially blue states, have been resistant, refusing to turn over data on SNAP recipients, citing privacy concerns. In response, the federal government has signaled that withholding funds may be a consequence for non-compliance. This measure is viewed as a necessary step to ensure taxpayers’ money is protected and that benefits are targeted to American citizens who abide by the rules.