FEDS SHIFT SNAP PROCESSING COSTS TO RETAILERS

The federal government plans to shift the cost of accepting food stamps to retailers in the coming weeks, a move that anti-hunger advocates say could make it harder for some families to buy groceries. Beginning Oct. 25, retailers will be required to pay for the equipment needed to process SNAP cards. Advocates worry that some merchants, particularly small corner groceries, could stop accepting the cards. Chain supermarkets and larger grocery stores should be positioned to absorb the change. The new requirement is part of the 2014 Farm Bill, and USDA has warned retailers not to pass the new cost on to customers, or require SNAP purchase minimum amounts. Farmers’ markets and nonprofit organizations are exempt from the change. 

Source: Baltimore Sun, 9/16/14, SNAP Cost Shift