The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a nationwide warning to more than 250,000 stores participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), reminding them that accepting SNAP funds for cannabis-containing products is strictly prohibited and could lead to criminal prosecution.
The letter, sent Thursday by USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) Administrator James Miller, emphasizes the agency’s intent to crack down on fraud and misuse of federal benefits. Miller called on retailers to uphold their responsibilities, noting that over 41 million low-income Americans rely on SNAP every month.
“SNAP is funded by American taxpayers and must be operated with integrity and accountability,” Miller wrote. “Retailers connect American families to nutritious food each day, and we must ensure this is done within the boundaries of the law.”
The notice reiterates that it is a direct violation of program rules to accept SNAP payments for any foods or drinks containing controlled substances, including marijuana and other cannabis derivatives. Violators, the letter warns, could face disqualification from the program, civil fines, and even criminal charges.
“USDA FNS is actively fighting fraud and preserving taxpayer dollars,” the letter states.
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