A New York state lawmaker says people should not be able to use food stamps to buy lobster, steak and other "luxury" cuisine. A bill introduced by Republican State Sen. Patty Ritchie, of Oswegatchie, would place restrictions on purchases made through New York's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
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.
"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," the bill explains.
Since the state assembly is majority-Democrat, the proposal is seen as unlikely to become law.