Senator Parker says NO to Bloomberg's Food Stamp Plan

(Brooklyn, NY) -  Governor David Paterson and Mayor Michael Bloomberg plan to announce today their impending request for permission of  the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which administers the nation’s food stamp program, to add sugary drinks to the list of prohibited goods for city residents receiving assistance. If approved, it would be the first time an item would be banned from the federal program based solely on nutritional value.

“The problem of obesity is not limited to the poorest New Yorkers, so why target only those families to address the issue? Needy families must be treated with dignity and respect, not stigmatized because they don’t always make the best nutritional choices. Our focus should be on educational efforts that encourage all New Yorkers to eat more healthfully.” Senator Kevin Parker said.

About Senator Parker

Senator Parker represents Brooklyn’s 21st Senate District, which encompasses Flatbush, East Flatbush, Kensington, Ditmas Park, Midwood and Borough Park, Senator Kevin Parker has been an outspoken advocate for the 311,000 constituents he serves. Since his election into the Senate in 2002, Senator Parker has remained committed to fighting for equitable rights for all, ensuring that his diverse district obtains necessary resources to help grow and sustain small businesses, higher education, and highlighting HIV/AIDS awareness.

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