Alaska Shares Personal Data of SNAP Recipients with Federal Government

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – In compliance with a federal government request, the state of Alaska has provided the personal information of around 70,000 residents enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. This move, reported by James Brooks with the Alaska Beacon and initially noted by NPR, expands beyond traditional financial eligibility details to include sensitive data such as names, dates of birth, addresses, Social Security numbers, and household information.

As noted in a memo from the USDA dated May 6, 2025, this request stems from an executive order by former President Donald Trump aimed at consolidating personal data across various governmental agencies. The purpose is to aid federal authorities in tracking and arresting immigrants for potential deportation.

“Alaska is complying with the federal government’s requirement to share the information as requested,” stated Alex Huseman, a public information officer for the Alaska Department of Health. He clarified that all SNAP-related data is being shared, encompassing client applications, renewals, and any other documentation processed by state staff.

Previously, the Alaska Legislature has voiced concerns regarding the implications of federal data collection. In 2008, lawmakers prohibited state funding for implementing the REAL ID program, only reversing this decision years later. In 2017, state lawmakers, including then-Senator Mike Dunleavy, expressed distrust towards federal data policies and called for enhanced privacy protections.

This development raises significant privacy concerns among lawmakers and residents alike.

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