LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan will no longer set a cap on assets for residents to qualify for food stamps.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a law this week that removes the maximum amount of assets Michiganders can have to qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Applications will only be based on residents’ current income.

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Previously, Michigan denied SNAP food assistance benefits to anyone with more than $15,000 worth of assets. That could include the value of their vehicles, homes or bank accounts.

“No one should be forced to sell their car or empty their savings account to feed themselves and their children,” Whitmer said.

Michigan instituted the $15,000 asset limit in 2011 after lawmakers learned an Auburn man who won a $2 million Michigan Lottery jackpot was collecting SNAP benefits because he had little current income.

Republicans say removing the asset test could reopen food assistance benefits for millionaires and lottery winners without benefiting anyone truly in need of help.

“Michiganders are always ready to support people who need temporary help to get back up on their feet, but Democrats are turning the food assistance program on its head,” said House Republican Leader Matt Hall. “Without this test measuring people’s wealth, even lottery winners and other millionaires could rake in food stamps paid for with our tax dollars that should be going to those who truly need help feeding their families.”

In related news, Rep. Kathy Schmaltz (R-Jackson) called out weak SNAP security protocols she says allowed some Michigan families to have their benefits stolen.

Attorney General Dana Nessel is charging a group accused of making at least $4 million in fraudulent purchases by stealing benefits from over 8,000 electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cardholders. Schmaltz has introduced legislation calling on the federal government to implement stronger security measures for SNAP.

“Fraud not only undermines the integrity of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program but also inflicts direct harm on those who can least afford it,” Schmaltz said. “It’s time for the federal government to step up its game and use modern technology to fight against fraud so that every dollar designated for assistance reaches the families who depend on SNAP benefits to put food on their tables.”