Bill bans welfare recipients from using cards on junk food and at strip clubs

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - A Bill aiming to stop food stamp recipients from using state issued debit cards at strip clubs and liquor stores was passed by the Florida House committee Monday, but Republican lawmakers are speaking out against a portion of the legislation, according to a Palm Beach Post report.

House Bill 1401 also proposes banning the purchase of cup cakes, soda, and other items on a long list of what’s considered junk food. Both Republicans and Democrats feel they don’t have the right to tell anyone what they can and can’t eat.

 “Even if they happen to be poor, even if they happen to be on food stamps…It’s just not our core mission, and I’m personally offended by it,” Rep. Dana Young, R-Tampa, said.

However, Chairwoman Ronda Storms supports the junk food ban because federally-funded subsidies shouldn’t be spend on luxuries.

"We're talking about feeding hungry people. And if we're talking about feeding hungry people, then we provide them with staples. Because you know what? That's all we can afford right now," Storms, R-Valrico, said.

Young, along with several others have said that they won’t support the measure in the future unless the food restrictions are removed.

Read entire story here. http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/state/florida-bill-would-prohibit-welfare-cards-as-payment-2136763.html