In other words, there will be a disruption of SNAP transactions at farmers markets nationwide. The problem seems inevitable, since FTM will not be able to distribute its equipment to all farmers markets immediately.
Ben Feldman, policy director for the Farmers Market Coalition, told The Washington Post, “The loss of the Novo Dia’s platform is a huge step back for our industry. Farmers markets have been at the forefront of innovative efforts to support healthy food access among low-income shoppers while increasing farmer prosperity. This situation highlights the need for a long-term, reliable, affordable solution for the redemption of SNAP and other forms of electronic payments at farmers markets.”
Gov. Cuomo Slams USDA
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo criticized the USDA following reports about the situation.
In a letter to USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue, the governor noted that Novo Dia is shutting down its service “in the middle of the busy farmers market season.” The agency’s inaction to the problem will hurt thousands of SNAP beneficiaries, farmers and small businesses in the state.
