Welfare, Smoking, and Snacks as Issues of the Day

According to the Bangor Daily News, the Health and Human Services Committee listened to lively testimony concerning two Republican sponsored bills, that would restrict welfare and snack purchasing, and a bill that would restrict smoking in outdoor venues proposed by Joan Cohen (D) of Portland.

In response to claims by the supporters of the welfare “residency requirement” bills, Laura Harper of the Maine Women’s Lobby said it is “a myth in Maine that people come to take advantage of our welfare benefits.” Harper also stated that many of those receiving benefits are single mothers who have left abusive relationships and rely on assistance to keep their families housed, fed, and together.