Where do you get your milk money?

Our local rag, the Raleigh News & Observer, reported on a decision by the federal government to stop paying for whole milk for pregnant and nursing mothers and children older than 2. Why did they do this? Because whole milk is more fattening than the alternatives, of course! And with childhood and adult obesity rates skyrocketing...

How did they do this? Because they can, quite simply. This is the better story, because it may be a portent of things to come. He who pays, decides. This applies to dietary decisions or to health care. I certainly can't say I fault the government for doing this (nevermind the potential health benefits of whole milk over skim). They have to keep costs under control, and it's cheaper to care for children and their parents of a "healthy" weight than obese folks. Same goes for health care. Want those cutting edge drugs that can save your life, even if for just 5 more years? If you're not paying for them, you probably won't get to decide.

If this is the government you want, it's the one you'll eventually get. Again, be careful what you wish for.