'Arizona’s decision to withhold welfare checks because of the federal government shutdown appears to make it the only state to cut off funding for the very poor because of the budget crisis, according to policy experts. The state stopped payments averaging $207 a week to 5,200 families eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families after Tuesday’s government shutdown. TANF provides cash assistance and other support to low-income children and their parents.
The Arizona Republic reported the decision came despite assurances from federal officials that states would be reimbursed for any payments they made for the federal program. It also comes as the state sits on a $450 million rainy day fund. Democratic lawmakers are now urging Republican Gov. Jan Brewer to reverse the decision, even if it means calling a special legislative session to get the authority to tap the fund.'
Well, it's not like those 5,200 families were probably making substantial contributions to Brewer's campaign fund, right? So what's the harm?
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Mohave Daily News > Archives > News > State > Arizona only state cutting welfare during shutdown
PHOENIX (AP) — Arizona’s decision to withhold welfare checks because of the federal government shutdown appears to make it the only state to cut off funding for the very poor because of the budget crisis, according to policy experts. The state stopped payments averaging $207 a week to 5200 …