Long-term increases like this are unusual. So is the fact that this increased governmental generosity began with a measure approved by Congress when Republicans held majorities in both chambers.
About 1 in 9 Americans live below the poverty level.
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Early estimates US poverty rate estimates indicate that policies intended to soften the blow of economic upheaval made a big difference.
Starting in October 2021, SNAP benefits will be 25% higher than before the pandemic due to a lasting policy change.
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An economist explains what it would cost to give SNAP benefits to all Americans in households earning up to about $100,000 per year – and why it would be worth it.
Tens of millions of American families are getting a monthly allowance from Uncle Sam.
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If the plan is fully phased in as proposed, workers could get up to $4,000 a month for a total of 12 weeks in paid leave to care for a newborn, another loved one or themselves within 10 years.
Keeping kids above the poverty line contributes to their stability in adulthood.
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For middle-class and wealthy families, securing government aid tends to be free of hassles. For low-income families, the process is often stigmatizing and the benefits meager.
High-quality day care has always been scarce in the U.S.
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The federal government has temporarily widened eligibility for food assistance to more students. Two scholars argue this needs to be made permanent and be accompanied with an awareness campaign.
The stuff kids need adds up, especially during pandemics.
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Few middle-class Americans undergoing Chapter 13 bankruptcy blame the government. They portray themselves as hardworking victims and resent others for taking more than their fair share.
SNAP helps stock the cupboards of low-income people.
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Restricting trade to control the pandemic damages livelihoods, especially those of the urban poor. The control of future pandemics must strike a balance between health and economic activity.
These women were released from an Oklahoma prison in 2019.
AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki
Not all Americans can take paid leave, and some workers can’t take any time off at all if they or their loved ones get sick. Those are big problems during pandemics.
Associate Dean of the College of Community and Public Affairs, and Professor of Public Administration, Binghamton University, State University of New York