Maine Launching Photos on Welfare Cards Statewide

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) _ Welfare recipients throughout Maine will soon receive new benefit cards with their photos on them that are designed to reduce fraud and abuse.
 
    The Department of Health and Human Services says that it will begin handing out the new electronic benefit transfer cards throughout Maine on Tuesday.
 
    The state began issuing the revamped cards in Bangor in April. The department said the pilot program would allow it to try out the new system to ensure there aren't any problems.
 
    The state moved to the new cards despite urging from the federal government to wait. The U.S. Department of Agriculture warned that Maine could use federal funding or face litigation if it violates any rules.
 
    Photos will be taken at local DHHS offices and cards will be mailed to recipients.