Some Republican gubernatorial candidates have highlighted what they say are Maine’s too generous welfare benefits. Does Maine extend the social safety net – the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, food stamps, housing, MaineCare and other programs – to
too many people? Should eligibility income levels be lowered to something closer to the federal poverty level? Should programs be focused on children and less generous to non-disabled adults? Or can a good argument be made for making sure people are not
getting sick, going hungry or living without heat? Does investing in these programs save money in the long run?