Governor LePage Threatens To Ban Junk Food From EBT Program [POLL]

Governor Paul LePage is threatening to institute a ban on junk food from the food stamp program, even without federal approval, or halt the program altogether.

The governor wrote a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, criticizing the agency for denying Maine's request for a waiver to institute the ban. Citing Maine's rising obesity and diabetes statistics, LePage wants to make it impossible for EBT cardholders to purchase things like candy bars and soda.

The federal government has never approved such a waiver, but instead supports incentives that encourage recipients to eat healthy. The BDN reports the governor's letter included the line "wake up and smell the energy drinks." LePage says President Obama's administration polices school menus but bows down to powerful food groups by letting taxpayers foot the bill for EBT cardholders junk food habits.

Now, the governor says he will go ahead and institute a junk food ban, even without approval. And, he suggests that the federal government should administer Maine's program.

So what do you think? Is it a good idea? Is it too 'Big Brother?' Let us know!