MLRI Basic Benefits 2021/22 trainings announced including 10/5 training re assisting homeless families; VICTORY MA Senate Overrides Gov's veto on asset test !

Yesterday, the Senate overrode the Governor's veto of provisions eliminating asset limits for TAFDC and EAEDC.  The House overrode the vetoes last week. The Legislature had eliminated asset limits in the FY 2022 budget in July.  The Governor sent back the asset limit provisions with amendments, keeping the TAFDC limit for applicants and setting the EAEDC limit at $2,000 for a single person and $3,00 for a couple. The Legislature re-enacted the provisions eliminating asset limits altogether and the Governor vetoed the re-enacted provisions. The House and Senate have now overridden those vetoes so asset limits are gone!

This also means that now TAFDC and EAEDC have NO asset test, just like the SNAP program (for most households). We urge all SNAP Outreach providers to actively screen for families and individuals who need cash assistance. Households cannot live on SNAP alone!

We urge Coalition members to send notes of thanks to Sen. Jamie Eldridge, a former legal services lawyer, who has worked tirelessly to get rid of cash assistance asset limits for many years.  james.eldridge@masenate.gov   And HUGE HUGE congratulations to theLift Our Kids Campaign for their amazing efforts to both boost cash benefits and eliminate barriers to cash benefits including eliminating the asset test!

Attached is the communication the state sent to all staff this AM.