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

[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.