AUGUSTA - This week, the Legislature gave initial, unanimous approval to a measure sponsored by Rep. Michele Meyer, D-Eliot, that would bolster the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program's monthly benefit level to better support Maine families and communities across the state.
"The time has come to modernize our TANF program," said Meyer. "Today's cost-of-living has put significant strain on families living on low incomes, making it difficult for parents to afford even the most basic essentials that are necessary to support their children and themselves. Increasing monthly cash assistance will not only assist parents and their children, but will also positively benefit the communities in which they live and our state's overall economy. When Maine's families thrive, we all thrive."
LD 1877 would increase TANF assistance by 20%, providing an eligible family of three with $868 per month compared to the current monthly total of $723. The program is solely dedicated to helping families with children achieve economic stability through cash assistance and employment training. According to data provided by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Maine provides the lowest benefit level among neighboring states in the region.
The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate in the coming days.
Rep. Meyer is the House chair of the Health and Human Services Committee and is serving her third term in the Maine House. She represents District 150, which includes Eliot and parts of Kittery and South Berwick.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Meyer], c. 305-965-2744