122nd MAINE LEGISLATURE
LD 367 LR 1952(01)
An Act To Monitor and Maintain Maximum Levels of Assistance in the General Assistance Program
Fiscal Note for Original Bill
Sponsor: Sen. Brennan of Cumberland
Committee: Health and Human Services
Fiscal Note Required: No
   
             
Fiscal Note
Minor cost increase - General Fund
Fiscal Detail and Notes
Establishing an alternative index for the maximum general assistance benefit based on  increases in the federal poverty level would result in supporting the maximum at a higher level during periods when the existing cap (110% of fair market rents) may be changing at a lesser rate. While this would prevent a reduction in general assistance payments during such a period, it could also result in a decrease in emergency requests to exceed the maximum.  The net impact is expected to be minor and can be absorbed within existing budgeted resources of the Department.