DAYTON, Ohio (AP) - An Ohio legislator thinks the state should offer taxpayers the option of getting their Ohio refunds on prepaid debit cards.
State Sen. Eric Kearney says his proposal could save the state money and benefit low-income residents who don't have bank accounts. The Cincinnati Democrat says the option would give them a safe and easy way to get their refunds, avoiding check-cashing fees.
A federal survey found that about 414,000 Ohio households didn't have a checking or savings account last year.
The Dayton Daily News reports some officials are concerned that the program's costs would outweigh its benefits. A U.S. Treasury pilot program was halted after only a small number of taxpayers chose to participate.
Ohioans currently can get refunds by mailed checks or direct deposits into their accounts.
(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
