Wis. Assembly eyes junk food stamps bill

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- The Wisconsin Assembly is set to vote on a bill that would limit the amount of food stamp benefits that could be spent on junk food.

The proposal up for a vote Tuesday would require people enrolled in the state's food stamps program to spend at least two-thirds of their monthly benefits on items such as milk, bread and vegetables. They could spend their remaining benefits on any authorized food.

The measure passed out of a committee last week despite opponents representing food companies, grocery stores and food banks. They argue the new restrictions would shame food stamp recipients and burden businesses with enforcement.

Bill sponsor Republican Rep. Dean Kaufert says because food stamp benefits are paid by taxpayers, recipients should use them wisely to eat healthier.