Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Deborah McFadden holds a sample of the new California State Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card July 17, 2002 in Oakland, California.

A review of records by the Los Angeles Times has found that welfare recipients are able to use their state-issued debit cards to withdraw cash from ATMs in more than half of the casinos and card rooms in California. The debit card system is thought to be a more efficient way of distributing and tracking welfare benefits, but is cash delivery the best option for recipients? How can the state ensure that welfare payments are used for their intended purpose?

Guest: