x
Breaking News
More () »

Governor's latest attempt to ban soda and candy from SNAP denied

(NEWS CENTER Maine) -- President Trump and Governor LePage often see eye to eye, but last week the Trump administration blocked the governor's latest attempt to ban the purchase of soda and candy with food stamps.

The Governor says he plans to revise and resubmit his request, citing a need to address Maine's high rate of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

"I don't think there is really so much an obesity epidemic as there is an issue with people not having access to activity," says Registered Dietitian, Amy Grimm.

She has nearly two decades of experience in the field of nutrition and currently helps patients suffering from eating disorders.

"I think that when you restrict certain foods, anybody, you me or anybody, it makes you want to have those foods even more."

She says for people who depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the battle is getting enough exercise, not so much what they buy at the grocery store.

"Tthey don't have the time or the money. It's sort of a luxury to be active in this day and age."

According to key findings from a 2016 Department of Agriculture study comparing food items purchased by SNAP households and non-SNAP households, less healthy food items were common purchases for both groups. "Sweetened beverages, prepared desserts, and salty snacks were among the top 10 summary categories for both."

Governor LePage has tried twice now to ban the purchase of soda and candy with food stamps. The request in 2015 stated two reasons. One, an obesity-related health crisis driving up Medicaid and private health insurance costs. And two, the Governor's belief that welfare benefits should be spent only on essential items.

In a radio address last week, the Governor said their request isn't being denied for health reasons, but because the agency is being pressured by lobbyists and corporations.

"Of course, the sugar lobby and the agriculture industry, which makes corn syrup, is against this. However, when we could no longer deny that smoking was causing suffering and early death for millions of people, the government finally stood up to Big Tobacco and did the right thing."

Here are the results of a Twitter poll on the issue from Tuesday.

Before You Leave, Check This Out