Millions in Bridge Card Money Spend Out of State

(WJBK) - Michigan EBT - Michigan WIC Bridge Card to purchase your WIC food benefits at WIC stores that display the Michigan WIC Bridge Card Accepted Here Sign. (http://www.ebt.acs-inc.com/ ) It's a program to help low-income families make ends meet. Instead of food stamps, Michigan residents get money on a bridge card to buy groceries.

A new investigation reveals at least $2 million was spent out of state in places like Florida, Hawaii, and even on cruise ships this winter.

This same thing happened in Missouri just months ago according to March 2011 reports from KMOV.com. "KMOV) -- A News 4 Investigation reveals Missouri residents receiving food stamps and welfare payments are spending them in places like Hawaii, California, and Florida."

"In January Missouri EBT cards were used to withdraw $362,682 in cash outside the state. During that same time period Missouri EBT cards purchased $3,521,974 worth of food outside Missouri. Those card users racked up $752 worth of ATM fees, they were also paid by taxpayers."

So why isn't this being stopped?

SOURCE: my FOX Detroit.com