To require up-to-date employment data for waivers of work requirements.
The U.S. Senate operates in interesting ways. Then again, I enjoyed reading the USCF rulebook and pondering why and how it was written, as much as I enjoyed reading encyclopedias and other textbooks. Anyway, I thought this exchange exhibits their professionalism and mindfulness, even while they disagree on non-contentious technicalities:
KENNEDY (R-LA): Madam President, I call up my Amendment number 102 and ask [for brevity's sake] that it be reported by number... This is the last amendment of the evening. I have 3 minutes. I can read a room, and I can count votes [if opponents object to its language]. KENNEDY: This amendment would require States to use the most up-to-date unemployment data for waivers of food stamp work requirements. Thank you.
STABENOW (D-MI): Madam President, I will be equally brief. The good news is it's already required by law; this is a total duplication; States must already provide up-to-date employment data in order to measure if they hit a 10% unemployment rate in order to get a State waiver. STABENOW: Please do not risk a default of our country on language that is already in the law. STABENOW: Would my friend accept a voice vote [so we can go home]?
KENNEDY: I will accept a voice vote! CLERK: (Enthusiastically) Thank you!
SA 102. Mr. KENNEDY proposed an amendment to the bill H.R. 3746, to
provide for a responsible increase to the debt ceiling; as follows:
In division C, after section 311, insert the following:
SEC. 312. WAIVERS.
Section 6(o)(4)(A)(i) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008
(7 U.S.C. 2015(o)(4)(A)(i)) is amended by inserting ``, as
determined by the most up-to-date employment data'' before
``; or''.
Personally, to me this amendment seems to clarify the law, and while a healthy skepticism is healthy and rational... there is no apolitical benefit to opposing an amendment which poses no threat. Civilians, judges, and legislators will just have to remember this hidden law whenever relevant decisions are made.
