Sweeping EBT reforms won't happen in MA

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - It looks like there won't be a major overhaul of the state's welfare system after all.

The Boston Herald reports that a panel reviewing changes to the EBT system voted for more education and stricter enforcement, rather than large changes.

They did not approve the toughest proposals, which would have eliminated cash benefits and blocked out-of-state EBT card use.

Some taxpayers say widespread changes are needed to prevent abuse.

"It's still going on, and until they get it taken care of, you're going to have more of it along the wa,” Danni DiNoia of Springfield said. "It's going to cost the taxpayers money."

State Rep. Shaunna O'Connell (R-Taunton) said that she plans to file a bill next year requiring welfare recipients to pay their rent and utilities automatically online, in order to ensure their benefits are being used for the necessities first.