Bill > A05742

This bill directs the commissioner of the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) to develop and implement a statewide program to replace all existing Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards that currently use magnetic strip technology with new cards that use more secure chip technology. The bill defines key terms, including the commissioner, the office (OTDA), and EBT cards, which are used to access public benefits. Within one year of the bill's effective date, the commissioner must coordinate with local social services commissioners and EBT card issuers to ensure a comprehensive replacement of magnetic strip cards with chip-based cards. Chip technology generally provides enhanced security compared to magnetic strips, making the cards more difficult to counterfeit and reducing the risk of unauthorized access to public benefit funds. The bill aims to improve the security and reliability of benefit distribution systems by modernizing the payment card technology used in the state.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5742