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A way to keep SNAP benefits for necessities

I too get angry when I see people use their SNAP benefits for food and then pay cash for alcohol and cigarettes. But what makes me even angrier is the fact that people receiving SNAP benefits can buy all the junk food, soda and candy they want, but can't buy toilet paper, cleaning supplies or personal hygiene items such as toothpaste, shampoo or bath soap. And contrary to what Mr. Schneider states in his Feb. 12 letter, I believe it can be legislatively prevented.

In fact it already is - to a point. You already can't buy alcohol or tobacco products, just extend the prohibition to unhealthy foods and extend the SNAP benefits to cover those other necessities that no one seems to think about until they're out of toilet paper.

Katherine Marek

Des Plaines

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