You’ve simply got to love the backwards ways in which Republicans go about trying to prove they’re fiscally conservative and want to increase personal freedom for citizens. Perfect example: Wisconsin.
In the Badger State, where Governor Scott Walker is trying to burnish his far right conservative credentials, members of his party have been busy introducing measures which, if enacted, would?prevent stores from accepting food stamps for shellfish and also place spending limits on items such as dry beans, tomato sauce, and spices.
Even more outrageous is the fact that these new food stamp restrictions would cost several million dollars to implement. The reason: cash registers and state computer systems would have to be completely overhauled for the programs to work.
But hey, it’s only money! Now go on over there and load up on Vienna sausage and potted meat, you lousy bum! No seafood for you!
And this additional cost comes at a time when Governor Walker has been told the state is experiencing zero revenue growth and Walker has announced huge cuts to the state budget.
In spite of these financial warning signs, the Public Benefit Reform Committee passed the bill along to the full Assembly on an?8-6 vote.
Wisconsin now joins other GOP-controlled states which are attempting to control what food stamps and other public assistance can be spent on. In Maine,?lawmakers are working on enacting a ban on junk food?for those who receive SNAP benefits. And Kansas, where Governor Sam Brownback’s “Topeka Miracle” has fizzled, the state recently decided that food stamps cannot be used at movie theaters, pools, or cruise ships.
It seems to be the opinion of the Republican Party that if you’re a person who needs assistance, you should have to face as many restrictions as possible. I guess it’s not enough that a person is down on their luck.?The GOP also feels it’s necessary to rub their noses?in it?as often as possible.
