Comment on FR Doc # 2011-14982

The supplementary information provided disclosed information regarding the issue of people abusing food assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and its benefits. Under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, the Food and Nutrition Service agency has ruled to punish those at fault for abusing SNAP benefits. Among the abusers are retailers and/or participants/clients. Retailers may take possession of a client’s identification number simply by memorization or manually entering a client’s PIN number or card number. It’s the responsibility of the cardholder to keep an eye out for such behavior as well as the retailer. I support the punishment and/or penalty given to those guilty of abuse. There should be an increase in the usage of loss prevention and an increase in the usage of surveillance cameras in various stores to catch the culprits; whether they are associated with the store or a client. The benefits are intended to serve the needy; to meet their nutrient needs, not to have it taken away.