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WIC Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT)
Analysis of
Alternatives for Implementing a Cash Value Voucher Program
In
August 2006, FNS issued a proposed rule that would expand the WIC food
package and allow for a cash value voucher (CVV) ($8 for women and $6
for children) for the purchase of fruits and vegetables. In order to
explore the impact the proposed CVV would have on various WIC Program
stakeholders, FNS contracted with the State Information Technology
Consortium (SITC) to study various alternatives for implementing the CVV.
SITC’s research methods included a literature review, structured
interviews, and focus groups. The project began with a literature
review and then a focus group with an Expert Panel to identify
alternatives, potential interviewees and key factors for data collection
and analysis. The literature review included a survey of industry and
academic publications, a review of existing electronic benefits transfer
(EBT) and CVV evaluations, and a review of technical documentation
related to the full cycle of transactions necessary for a CVV
implementation.
The
Expert Panel consisted of representatives from USDA, state government,
local WIC offices, EBT vendors, the Food Marketing Institute, and
academia. The Expert Panel offered guidance and input throughout the
project, including recommendations of interviewees, confirmation on CVV
options for analysis, and comments on the CVV descriptions and
alternatives analysis.
Structured interviews were conducted with representatives from State WIC
programs, local WIC offices, card technology vendors (including EBT
vendors), cash register vendors, payment association representatives,
and food retailer representatives. All interviews are listed in the
Bibliography. Additionally, a focus group was held with current WIC
participants to gather information about their experience, preferences,
and assessment of different CVV alternatives.
Final Report
(PDF)
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