Many low-income Americans rely on government assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, to put food on the table. However, recent changes to SNAP policy have made it possible for some recipients to use their benefits to purchase tablets, a type of mobile computing device.
The ability to purchase tablets with food stamps has been a controversial topic. Some argue that it is an appropriate use of taxpayer dollars, as tablets can be used for educational purposes, job training, and accessing other essential services. Others argue that it is a misuse of funds, as tablets are not a food item and could be used to purchase non-essential items.