The money California taxpayers pay that funds CalFresh, the food stamps program, may be earmarked so that the recipients of government largesse cannot use the food stamps to buy sugary sodas and other beverages that have more than 10 calories per cup.
Out of concern for the “diabetes and obesity epidemic in the central valley and the rest of California,” according to State Sen. Michael J. Rubio (D-East Bakersfield), who is proposing the legislation, SB 134, the list of items eligible for purchase with the food stamps will not include the calorie-rich beverages.
“With the diabetes and obesity epidemic in the Central Valley and throughout California, SB 134 is simply the first step in trying to reverse this alarming trend, particularly among children,” Rubio said, adding that according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention “… over 20% of Californians are obese, but could well exceed 45% if trends continue.”
CalFresh is paid through the federal government. The California Department of Social Services has to get clearance from Washington before it proceeds.
COMMENTS
Please let us know if you're having issues with commenting.