What ever will welfare recipients do if the Florida Legislature follows through on this bill that would make it impossible to use their food stamp debit cards at Internet cafes, pari-mutuels, card rooms and strip clubs?
A controversial measure to require drug felons to undergo treatment before receiving temporary cash assistance passed a House hurdle Tuesday on a party-line vote. Sponsored by Rep. Jimmie Smith, R-Inverness, the measure (HB 813) would allow felons who have not undergone treatment to designate someone else to collect Temporary Aid to Needy Families, a federal program administered by the state. Critics say the bill punished low income recipients while backers say the measure helps ensure that taxpayer money is not spent on illicit drug use. “Sometimes all people need to do the right thing is a bit of encouragement,” said Rep. Dennis Baxley, R-Ocala. In other action, the panel voted 13-5 to prevent food stamp debit cards from paying for alcohol and tobacco. The cards would also not work in Internet cafes, pari-mutuels, card rooms and adult entertainment venues.
How are those on welfare suppose to enjoy their weekends? They’re already being drug-tested. Now they can’t gamble or get a lap dance!
Material from the News Service of Florida was used in this report.
