Spokane7
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May 3, 2010 in Idaho
State cutting some cash assistance
BOISE — The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is reducing or eliminating payments to about 1,250 residents receiving cash assistance under the Aid for the Aged, Blind and Disabled program.
Agency administrator Russ Barron says the program faces a $1.1 million deficit.
Over 14,700 Idaho residents receive cash payments through the AABD program, and most will continue to get $53 a month. Payment reductions range from $33 a month to a $198 a month for 300 participants with developmental disabilities who live in certified family homes.
“We hope that doesn’t change anybody’s living situation,” said department spokesman Tom Shanahan. “If there is a problem we would work with the person to try to find them a new certified family home.”
The program doesn’t receive any federal funds, Shanahan said.
“This cut hurt because it’s all state general funds, it’s all dollar-for-dollar cuts,” he said.
Still, most of the neighboring states have lower average payments under the program than Idaho, Shanahan said.
“In Idaho, most people get $53 a month, and Washington pays $46 a month, Nevada pays $36 and Wyoming is $27,” he said. “We have been pretty good, it’s just that we can’t keep funding it at the level that we were.”
The proposed changes will take effect on July 1 and those affected will be notified by letter as early as this week.
Some of the residents affected by the cuts may see an increase in food stamp benefits, he said.
© Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Sandpoint Arbor Day is Saturday 
spokanecommunistparty on May 03 at 9:41 a.m.
Small crappy little government Still a good idea Idaho Republican’ts? Try taxing the rich with your state income tax instead of the working poor.
MrNatural on May 03 at 12:14 p.m.
So Tea-Party Butch is espousing freedom from government in unique and compassionate ways.
Welcome to Otter-ho where the poor and unfortunate can reach full potential
SugarShane on May 03 at 12:42 p.m.
Idaho, a nice place to visit, but terrible to live, raise kids, work, be a minority, a liberal, or educated.
cryssT on May 03 at 2:14 p.m.
apparently with an 8% tax for income over 25K as well as 6% sales tax (including FOOD) the ultra rich don’t find Idaho that appealing a place to live. besides the nicest part of Idaho is in the north which further limits how many more can be stuffed into the panhandle. but the roads are better than in Washington.
Dazzeetrader11 on May 03 at 6:18 p.m.
Oh…tax the rich..the hue and cry of the ones who haven’t generated much in their lives. Why baother those that actually worked hard and made oney. Usually the wealthy ( unless they’re the Obamas) give more than you’ll ever see…they do it quietly.
You want the government to control that and mandate it? right?
Won’t happen because your favorite politicians ( like Obama and Goldman) wouldn’t get the support they do. I think much more can be done for the disabled and poor. SO why don’t you guys get a second job and donate away? Quit crying. Go do something. Neither the government nor the wealthy will save you. It’s America…go to school, be smart and get a high paying job…then you can donate too. Have at it…