proposed positive change to SSI rules

[redbird]

There is a proposal to change federal regulations so that getting help with groceries or food does not lead to benefits cuts. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/ssi-in-kind-support-maintenance_n_63ebf926e4b022eb3e32f2d6?jil

There is a mandatory public comment period and they need positive comments from US people on why this is a good idea. Note: your name will be attached to the public comment.

The deadline for comments is April 17

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/02/15/2023-02731/omitting-food-from-in-kind-support-and-maintenance-calculations

My comment was about not having to calculate the value of soup I took to a grieving friend, and the importance of shared meals as part of community.

Comments

[redsixwing]

Boosted and composing a letter. Thank you!

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[minoanmiss]

Thank you a lot for posting this

[lauradi7dw]

Thanks for making it easy to comment. I have done so, after thinking the change is a good thing but not actually doing anything about it.

[otter]

This will help my family directly if it passes. I will send a comment in support.

[teaotter]

Thank you! I added my comment.

The disability rules are mean-spirited and vindictive; although this change is not sufficient to fix them, it is definitely a step in the right direction.

[franklanguage]

"Vindictive" is a good way to describe them; I've been collecting mostly since 1981, when I sustained a brain injury, and at the time I returned to NYC in 1983 was unable to get any help with my rent because it was above $215.

I'm still collecting SSI, having worked on a limited basis and accumulated work credits so that I now receive SSDI—Social Security Disability Insurance—as well. The reason the rules are "draconian" is because the Administration ultimately wants to wean—or throw—everyone off the program; "supplemental" is baked into its name for a reason. Unfortunately, not everyone is able to transition off benefits.

[alexseanchai]

I submitted my comment yesterday, and I am now irritated about this. if I had submitted my comment today, I could have made reference to an email I got today from my city council member. the email is about his town hall meeting on Saturday, and it contains the phrase "We’ll have refreshments".

not for SSI recipients you don't, Councilmember, and I would like to have mentioned that to the federal regulators!