Wednesday 24 February 2016

Food Stamps Can't Be Used For Luxury Meals Or Drinks Say US Law Maker

 by Benson Agoha| International

 
* Taste of Luxury: Steak and Lobsters aren't for the hard-up.
(Credit: via Wiki)
 
The US Food Stamps look just like it - a coupon designed like a stamp, with the shape of money and issued by the Department of Agriculture.

A federal program, it provides food-purchasing assistance for low- and no-income people living in the U.S. The benefits are distributed by each U.S. state's Division of Social Services or Children and Family Services.

Like a most benefits, the amount of food received by a household depends on it's size, income, and expenses.

A US Law maker from the state of New York suggested that people should not be able to use food stamps to buy lobster, steak and other "luxury" cuisine. But it is not for the reasons that are apparent.
* Sample US Food Stamp. (Credit: via Wiki)
According to a Fox News report, the bill, introduced by Republican State Sen. Patty Ritchie, of Oswegatchie, would place restrictions on purchases made through New York's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The reason, he says is to help control weight gains, telling colleagues that: "At a time when our state and nation are struggling with an obesity epidemic, it is critically important that taxpayer-funded programs help low-income consumers make wise and healthy food choices."

Along with lobster and certain cuts of steak, the legislation would also place energy drinks on the suggested list of banned items, arguing the drinks are not nutritious. Decorated cakes would also be singled out under the proposal.
 
(* With lead and contributions from Fox News.)
 

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