Testimony Heard on Benefits Cliff Bill

On Wednesday, the Senate Health and Welfare Committee heard public testimony on a benefits cliff bill for recipients of SNAP, TANF, and other government assistance programs. SB 82, sponsored by Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman (R - Arnold), would allow a recipient of government assistance to maintain a level of transitional benefits in cases where an increase in the recipient’s income would otherwise cause them to lose access to the full amount of their benefits. Additionally, under this bill, the Department of Social Services would limit any initial application for SNAP, TANF, child care assistance, or any medical assistance or health insurance program to a concise, non-duplicative, and easily accessible form on the Department's website. Speaking before the Senate committee, Coleman said the bill would make it easier for those on government assistance to gradually increase their wages to the point that they would no longer need any government assistance at all.

The MCC testified in support of the proposal. The bill must now be voted out of committee before being considered by the entire Missouri Senate.