It became a national story last week that public-assistance clients in California were using their CalWORKS cards (the equivalent of Michigan Bridge Cards) to withdraw cash benefits from ATMs at casinos.
In fact, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger issued an executive order barring California welfare recipients from using state-issued debit cards at casino ATMs.
So, can Michigan clients do the same? We already know they can buy lottery tickets with Bridge Cards — and, of course, they can spend their cash allowances anywhere they want, including the blackjack tables.
I’m checking on the Bridge Card-casino connection, and will report back.
By the way, Schwarzenegger’s order requires welfare recipients to sign a pledge that they will use their benefits only to meet the basic needs of their families.
Pretty funny, eh?
