As a trailblazer in public policy and legislation, Donald Gainsborough stands at the forefront of innovative solutions for state-administered benefit programs. As the head of Government Curated, he has been instrumental in shaping policies that enhance security and accessibility for vulnerable populations. In this interview, we dive into Maryland’s groundbreaking move to introduce ‘tap and go’ EBT cards, exploring the motivations behind this shift, the technology driving it, and the impact it promises for nearly a million residents. We also discuss the challenges of implementation, the fight against benefit theft, and what this pioneering step means for the future of public benefits across the nation.
Can you explain what ‘tap and go’ EBT cards are and how they differ from the current EBT cards used in Maryland?
Sure, ‘tap and go’ EBT cards are a modern upgrade to the traditional electronic benefit transfer cards that Marylanders use to access benefits like food assistance or cash aid. Unlike the older magnetic stripe cards, these new cards come with chip technology, allowing users to simply tap or wave their card at a payment terminal to complete a transaction. This contactless feature not only makes transactions quicker and more convenient but also adds a significant layer of security against fraud, which has been a growing concern with the older swipe-based system.
What prompted Maryland to make the switch to these chip-enabled EBT cards?
The primary driver behind this switch is the urgent need to combat benefit theft. With the old magnetic stripe cards, it’s unfortunately been too easy for thieves to skim data and drain accounts, leaving vulnerable families without their much-needed resources. Maryland officials recognized that continuing with outdated technology was costing both the state and its residents dearly, not just in financial terms but also in trust. By adopting chip-enabled cards, the state is taking a proactive stance to protect benefits and ensure that taxpayer dollars are used as intended.
How significant has benefit theft been for Marylanders relying on EBT cards?
Benefit theft has been a serious and growing problem in Maryland. We’ve seen numerous cases where recipients’ accounts are compromised, often through skimming devices placed on card readers. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it’s devastating for families who depend on these benefits for basic needs like food and housing. While exact figures vary, the Department of Human Services has reported a steady rise in stolen benefits over recent years, which has pushed the state to prioritize security upgrades like these new cards to stem the losses.
Can you tell us how many Marylanders are expected to benefit from this rollout and which programs are involved?
Absolutely. Nearly 943,000 Marylanders are set to receive these new ‘tap and go’ EBT cards. This includes about 680,000 individuals who access SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, which provide an average of $180 per month for food assistance. Additionally, the cards will serve recipients of Temporary Cash Assistance and the Temporary Disability Assistance Program. This broad reach underscores how critical this upgrade is for a significant portion of the state’s population who rely on these programs.
What specific technology powers these new cards to enhance security?
The ‘tap and go’ cards incorporate what’s known as EMV technology, which stands for Europay, Mastercard, and Visa. This system uses a microchip embedded in the card that generates a unique code for each transaction. Unlike magnetic stripes, which store static data that can be easily copied, the chip makes it incredibly difficult for thieves to replicate or steal information. This technology, combined with the contactless payment option, reduces the risk of fraud by minimizing physical card exposure at terminals.
As one of the first states to adopt this technology for EBT cards, how does it feel for Maryland to be a pioneer in this space?
It’s both exciting and a bit daunting to be at the forefront of this change. Being a pioneer means Maryland has the chance to set a standard for other states, showing that modernizing benefit delivery systems is not only possible but necessary. At the same time, it comes with the responsibility to get it right, as other states will be watching closely. There’s a sense of pride in leading the charge to protect vulnerable residents, but also a recognition of the hard work ahead to ensure a smooth rollout.
What insights did Maryland gain from California’s experience as the only other state using this technology for EBT services?
California’s rollout provided some valuable lessons for Maryland. They were the first to deploy chip-enabled EBT cards on a large scale, issuing around 4 million cards, and they saw a substantial decrease in stolen benefits as a result. One key takeaway was the importance of clear communication with recipients about how to use the new cards and what to expect during the transition. Maryland has taken note of their approach to public education and vendor coordination to avoid confusion at the point of sale, which was a challenge early on in California.
When can Marylanders expect to start using these new ‘tap and go’ EBT cards?
The rollout isn’t immediate—it’s going to take some time to fully implement. The contract with Fidelity Information Systems, which was recently approved, includes a transition period starting in the coming months, with the official start date set for July 1, 2026. During this interim phase, there will be a lot of behind-the-scenes work to prepare systems, train vendors, and distribute cards. While it might be several months before everyone has their new card in hand, the goal is to move as quickly as possible to address the urgent need for enhanced security.
Can you share more about the partnership with Fidelity Information Systems and their role in this transition?
Certainly. Fidelity Information Systems secured a contract potentially worth up to $38.4 million over a 10-year period to manage this EBT card upgrade. Their role is comprehensive—they’re responsible for producing and distributing the chip-enabled cards, ensuring the technology integrates smoothly with payment systems across the state, and providing ongoing support. Additionally, there’s a $7.7 million allocation specifically for the transition phase over the next nine months, which shows how critical their involvement is in getting this project off the ground effectively.
Looking ahead, what is your forecast for the future of EBT systems and fraud prevention nationwide?
I believe we’re at the beginning of a major transformation in how EBT systems operate across the country. Maryland and California are early adopters, but I expect more states to follow suit with chip-enabled and contactless technology as the benefits become clear—both in terms of user convenience and fraud reduction. Beyond that, I foresee even more advanced security measures, like biometric authentication or mobile app integration, becoming part of the landscape. The focus will increasingly be on balancing accessibility with protection, ensuring that benefits reach those who need them without falling into the wrong hands.
