News

Ohio to drop EBT smart cards

June 27, 2005

The Times Reporter: The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services announced June 27 a new, $45 million contract with Affiliated Computer Services of Dallas to replace the costly "smart card" technology, which electronically distributes food stamps.

The new method, beginning sometime next spring, actually will be an old method that utilizes magnetic-strip cards like those widely used at grocery stores, gas stations and ATMs. The big reason for the change, state officials said, is the monthly cost: 89 cents per magnetic card compared with $4.74 per smart card.

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