I don't know what EBT money is, but there's an argument to be made that a large percentage of the urban poor (who often receive welfare benefits) are indeed on prescribed drugs that (1) the less-WASPY folk don't get prescribed, and (2) don't do much for their life expectancies. Does help keep them quiet, though. thelastpsychiatrist.com has some interesting statistics on this topic, which can be verified. (Warning: TLP is probably an atheist).
Of course, that kind of "population control" is across-the-board policy; and not partisan, so it may not apply here. Still, I don't think it's much different than the nαzι ovens or abortion in terms of cruelty. These welfare recipients are usually not well-educated and, unfortunately, trust their doctors. And I guess the drugs do make them feel better, even if they didn't really need them for a headache or tension. And the drugs are extremely habit-forming, and would tend to naturally lead someone to street drugs (or alcohol) to boost the effects.