Bill to aid those on supplemental assistance receives unanimous vote in House

February 19, 2016

Thousands of low income residents across Washington could be affected by a bill that has moved through the state House.  And as Ruth Johnson reports, the measure would also affect the way grocery stores are doing business.

Johnson:  Questions center on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.  Right now, benefits are issued the first ten days of the month.  Grocers say it causes a run on stores, and often they don't have enough stock.  And Teri Hickel, a Republican lawmaker, says that's not all.

Hickel: “It also creates a bottleneck for recipients and members trying to shop in these crowded grocery stores.  Most importantly, it's difficult to staff these grocery stores when one-third of the month is extra crowded.”

Johnson:  Hickel, who just assumed the role of legislator five weeks ago, says program benefits ought to be administered over a 20 day period. House lawmakers agreed.  The bill now goes to the Senate.

Ruth Johnson, Olympia.