During a discussion on Friday morning's episode of WVNN's "The Dale Jackson Show," State Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur) was asked whether Alabama shared Minnesota's welfare fraud issue.
Orr told Jackson that while welfare fraud does take place in Alabama, the state legislature is actively working against it and considering increasing restrictions on eligibility.
"I think we can tighten up as far as the scrutiny," Orr said. "Had a bill last session, going to have it back again this session to use databases to make sure people who are applying and getting these benefits are truly eligible."
The lawmaker mentioned a piece of legislation he previously sponsored that helped dismantle an EBT-related fraud operation in Birmingham.
He explained, "I sponsored a bill that passed several years ago that was used to bust a whole bunch of convenience stores down in Birmingham, where they were using EBT cards and sending fraudulent money overseas and all that."
"I think we can always tighten up on things and just make sure those who qualify are able, but those who are fraudulently accessing the system or abusing the system that they are held accountable," Orr added.
Orr previously filed legislation to address SNAP misuse in Alabama. In a previous episode of WVNN's "The Dale Jackson Show," Orr confirmed that he will refile the bill in the upcoming legislative session.
"I am reintroducing my legislation during the 2026 session that will make candy and soft drinks ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in Alabama," stated Orr.
He continued, "So, taxpayers receive more accountability, and the program returns to its original intent of providing nutritious food to individuals and families who need a temporary helping hand."
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