Sen. Libous Proposes Limitations on Welfare Spending

(BINGHAMTON, N.Y.) -- Sen. Tom Libous has proposed legislation that would ban welfare recipients from using the aid they receive to spend on cigarettes, alcohol, strip clubs, lottery tickets or other forms of gambling, ABC affiliate WIVT/WBGH-TV reports.

"Public assistance is designed to help needy families provide for their children until they can transition back to the workforce and become self-sufficient," Libous said. He also said it would also protect taxpayers while making sure that people on public assistance still receive the support they need.

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