Walsh wants ban on using EBT cards to purchase tobacco products
By CHRISTINE HAINES
chaines@yourmvi.com
The state House Thursday passed a bill authored by Rep. Justin Walsh, R-Rostraver, that would prohibit the use of public assistance benefits to purchase tobacco products.
Walsh said he proposed the legislation placing a tobacco restriction on EBT cards because it is good government.
“As elected officials we are stewards of the taxpayer dollars,” Walsh explained. “These funds are there for people who need them for necessities.”
The House approved the legislation on a vote of 154-32. It now moves on to the state Senate.
“I have to follow up and do my due diligence with my colleagues in the senate,” Walsh said. “It seems to have bipartisan support. I don’t see it as all that controversial.”
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