Idaho Bill Would Stagger Food Stamp Distribution

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Lawmakers are hoping a new bill that passed the Senate Tuesday will allow Idaho to stagger when food stamp recipients receive money to buy groceries. McCammon Republican Sen. Jim Guthrie said spreading out the release of those funds over ten days could help offset "grocery store chaos" on the first of every month. He said the change could tackle frustration over long lines and give stores time to restock in-demand products. But implementing a staggered release isn't cheap: Cost estimates range from $290,000 to nearly $700,000. Huston Republican Sen. Patti Anne Lodge, one of only two senators who opposed the bill, said that money would be better spent teaching Idahoans who receive food assistance how to cook and how to spend money wisely. The bill now returns to the House.