What is the future for EBT?
The USDA continues to work with States to improve EBT in the following ways: • Assuring that stores are entered into, or taken out of, EBT systems timely and correctly. • Using EBT data efficiently to detect and pursue abuse. • Maintaining vigilance on security measures and privacy protections. • Working with States to make their cards usable in other systems, but without risking duplicate participation by recipients and without exceeding cost neutrality. For the WIC program, the challenge is to use EBT to provide food prescriptions and health information in addition to a payment system. Wyoming has demonstrated that it is feasible to use a smartcard, off-line approach. Other States are now proceeding with similar pilot projects which will provide more information on the costs and benefits of EBT for WIC.
