Bill > S01779

This bill directs the Commissioner of the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) to develop and implement a program to replace all existing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards with magnetic strips with new cards that use chip technology. The bill defines key terms, including "commissioner" as the head of OTDA, "office" as OTDA itself, and "EBT card" as a card used to access benefits under the social services law. Specifically, the bill requires the commissioner to complete this card replacement program within one year of the bill's effective date, and mandates that OTDA coordinate with all county social services commissioners and EBT card issuers in the state to ensure successful implementation. The goal appears to be upgrading the technology of benefit cards to improve security and functionality, moving from less secure magnetic strip technology to more advanced chip-based cards. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1779