Some Michigan farmers and farmers markets might not be able to accept SNAP benefits soon. That’s because the federal government ended its contract with a transaction service about 50 Michigan farmers markets in Michigan use to process food stamps payments.
New York recently came to an agreement with the company, Novo Dia, to continue providing services through the end of the market season. But it’s unclear if Michigan will be able to do the same. Right now, farmers and farmers markets have until the end of August to transition to new technology, or else they won’t be able to offer SNAP benefits.
Amanda Shreve is with the Michigan Farmers Market Association.
“We are trying to prepare markets and farmers in Michigan that are currently using this equipment that they need to make plans to transition to new equipment as soon as possible.”
An old budget item from last year can help farmers who need to transition. Shreve says there is state money available for farmers markets to change programs.