What effect is welfare reform having on state EBT programs?
Welfare reform is creating some challenges for recipients. Now there are wide variations among states in limits on EBT cash access fees and making people whole in cases of theft. Despite the differences in state EBT programs, recipients nationwide who opt for direct deposit of benefits at banks and credit unions still have Regulation E [federal electronic funds transfer] protections against loss and theft. Welfare reform required that minor parents can get cash assistance only if they live with a parent or legal guardian, unless there’s proof it’s an abusive situation. It won’t be uncommon to have three age groups in one household receiving three different types of benefits. If a state requires that there be only one EBT card and one PIN per household, it would give one family member de facto control over everyone’s benefits. Welfare reform legislation mandates EBT for all Food Stamp recipients by Oct. 1, 2002, without any provisions for waivers or hardship exemptions. Federal law allo
