a:3:{s:16:"field_story_body";a:1:{i:0;a:2:{s:5:"value";s:1278:"Michigan has an inordinate number of people who are truly in need because of our high unemployment rate and a sluggish economy. As a state we try to address the needs of the people who are suffering economically by providing them with services that help them through the difficult times. One of the ways to do that is with Bridge Cards. To many, Bridge Cards are a Godsend and help them to survive until they can get back on their feet.<br />
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The sad thing is that Bridge Cards are being abused in many different ways by the people who use them. One of the most recent abuses has been exposed by Sen. Hardiman. He has stated that &ldquo;The state has determined about $87,000 in assistance funding was withdrawn at Detroit's MotorCity Casino within a recent one-year period&rdquo; using Bridge Cards.<br />
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Senator Hardiman has introduced legislation aimed at preventing Michigan welfare recipients from withdrawing taxpayer money from ATM machines while at Casinos.<br />
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Click on the story &ldquo;<a href="http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2010/09/bill_would_ban_welfare_benefit.html"><em><strong>Bill would ban welfare benefits from casino ATMs</strong></em></a>&rdquo; from mlive and&nbsp; the Associated Press for the details.<br />
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