You may have heard various news reports this summer about issues affecting SNAP/EBT use at farmers markets across our country. While all Rhode Island farmers markets will continue processing SNAP/EBT transactions with no break in service (only three were using the mobile application vendor Novo Dia Group), there is still some confusion around the situation.
Thanks to the Farmers Market Coalition for providing this information from Novo Dia Group to help answer some common questions from market managers.
On July 27th the State of New York, in partnership with the New York Farmers Market Federation, announced an agreement with Novo Dia Group, Inc.
This six-month agreement ensures that all users of Mobile Market+ nationwide, can continue operating without any service disruption. Read the press release “Governor Cuomo Announces Plan to Protect SNAP Recipients’ Access to Farmers’ Markets.”
We have received numerous follow-up questions. In an effort to eliminate confusion, we have created the following set of FAQs.
What does the announcement by New York cover?
The agreement covers all current users and all Mobile Market+ products (MM+ Select, MM+ Register, and MM+ Token Recon) through the end of February 2019.I’m not in New York, does this apply to me?
Yes, the agreement with the NY Farmers Market Federation applies to all markets throughout the US.What about cellular service?
The agreement includes costs for cellular service.Will you be adding new merchants?
Yes, merchants interested can contact us via email or online. Note: We will not be offering a package that includes cellular/data, iPad, or iPhone.Will Novo Dia be processing orders for new or replacement equipment?
Novo Dia Group will be processing new BYOD orders, replacement equipment, and new license orders.Can I, or do I need to, renew my MM+ license?
Yes, beginning August 15, 2018, we will resume our normal license notification, renewal, and expiration processes. In the meantime you can contact our Help Desk at (888) 377-7884, or you can email us at support@novodiagroup.com.What changes should I expect since the announcement?
Novo Dia Group will continue to provide the same service options as we have in the past.What happens after February 2019?
We are working with the New York Farmers Market Federation, as well as many other groups, to construct a permanent solution.When will Novo Dia be announcing another update?
We will continue to send and post any updates to our merchants, partners, and other interested parties via email, our support site, and our website.Where can I get the most current and accurate information about the next steps?
If you would like to receive updates or announcements from Novo Dia Group you can sign up here: https://www.novodiagroup.com/contact-us/
Photo by Liz Yeager
