Bill proposes ending purchases of steak, cake, lobster & more with food stamps [View all]

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Bill prohibiting use of food stamps to buy lobster, steak proposed in NY

New York State Senator Patty Ritchie has presented a bill that would prohibit public aid recipients from buying luxury foods with food stamps.

Specifically mentioned are fancy steaks and lobster.
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Bill prohibiting use of food stamps to buy lobster, steak proposed in NY
Feb 22nd 2016 1:50PM

New York State Senator Patty Ritchie has presented a bill that would prohibit public aid recipients from buying luxury foods with food stamps.

Specifically mentioned are fancy steaks and lobster.



The measure has been met with criticism.

Jeremy Saunders, an advocacy group leader in the state, told the Journal News, "This is a Republican attempt to make it appear that poor people use tax dollars to buy steak and lobster."

The bill also places exclusions on junk foods, as, according to a memo, "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."

Notably, a 2007 report published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found no link between food stamp use and either unhealthy dietary habits or obesity.
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