Attached is a fourth series of Q&As developed to address questions arising from states’ enactment of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (PL 105-33). The answers do not establish new policy. They are an interpretation of the relevant provisions and their intent, and should serve as a guide until issuance of regulations.
This report explores the feasibility and potential cost of enabling EBT systems to differentiate between program-eligible and ineligible items. It considers the cost of upgrading systems in stores that now have scanners and the cost of installing new systems in stores without scanners. The report also examines the potential for the purchase of ineligible items even with the introduction of new technological controls.
The purpose of this proposed rule is to implement the Food Stamp Program retailer provisions included in the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) of 1996, as well as the retailer provision included in the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act.