[Stephen Ritter]

"I would prefer that the federal government not be involved in it at all and the states themselves determine the benefit levels that will be provided."

I've got no problems with that.

"But I would firmly support the eligible food stuffs being very restricted in scope."

Once again, make that a decision for the individual states.

In my own case, I decided that 30 years of being a taxpayer entitled to get the occasional "treat". A good 95% of what we purchase are solid, nutritious foodstuffs. We made the decision to be good stewards of the taxpayer's money.

Being a conservative, I realize that the dominant view of the Food Stamp program among conservatives is of Welfare Wilma and her ten kids buying out the candy, cookie, and ice cream aisles in the local grocery. But I've also come to know other people, since the disaster of disability hit me. Most of these people are grateful for hand up, and have attitudes toward food purchases like mine. (They would also be grateful if the Feds would stop the wholesale desertion of America by industry ... jobs DO help, you know.)

Also, I've given speeches to welfare recipients on the local level, and encouraged them to purchase and eat wisely. I'm still a conservative, after all.

Man, do I find myself in unusual territory this morning!

[Phantom Lord]

Man, do I find myself in unusual territory this morning!

Me in you are in pretty much total agreement.

[Maigrey]

Nothing wrong with that.

I have no problem with the people who truly need the assistance (the compassionate conservative) but I get infuriated at the people who are sitting on their collective (bleep) and demanding handouts.

For the people who can be educated, your efforts can be a benefit. But I tend to think (from experience) that most of the people who are in their situation have no concern for not wasting the money they receive, nor care to consume the things that would be healthy and benefitial.

Those who are ignorant can be taught. Those who remain stupid can't.