Freed Today, Hungry Tomorrow: An Assessment of the Drug Felony Disqualification in Washington’s Food Stamp Program

This report documents the harmful effects of Washington State’s policy of denying food stamps to former drug felons. This report identifies which groups are most hurt by the drug felony disqualification and illustrates how this policy is unsound.

Stamp Out Hunger: Invest in Food Stamps, Invest in Montana’s Families and Economy

The Food Stamp Program is one of the most cost-effective public assistance programs available to states. This is because the federal government covers the entire cost of food stamp benefits, and states only pay half of the administrative costs. By increasing food stamp allocations, Montana could ensure that people have sufficient food. Such an increaseContinue reading “Stamp Out Hunger: Invest in Food Stamps, Invest in Montana’s Families and Economy”

The Best Medicine at the Best Price: Proven State Strategies for Lowering Rx Costs and Protecting Public Health Care Programs

Prescription drugs are a top driver Medicaid budgets in Northwest states. Many strategies have been implemented and proposed that harm consumers and do not address rising prescription drug prices. By using multi-agency and multi-state prescription drug purchasing pools, states in the Northwest can save 5 to 15 percent of their total prescription drug costs. DownloadContinue reading “The Best Medicine at the Best Price: Proven State Strategies for Lowering Rx Costs and Protecting Public Health Care Programs”

Raise the Roof: Empowering Oregon Communities for Affordable Housing

Over the last decade, Oregon’s economy has exploded with the creation of new jobs and massive migration from California and other states. This economic boom has dramatically increased housing costs. Meanwhile, federal funding for affordable housing has declined. There are many proven strategies available to Oregon communities that can be used to alleviate the problemContinue reading “Raise the Roof: Empowering Oregon Communities for Affordable Housing”

Stop the War on the Poor: Montana’s Public Programs Under Siege

Projected general fund deficits in Montana coupled with proposed Medicaid cuts by the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) will shred Montana’s safety net – eliminating many of the supports Montana’s poorest families need to live safe, healthy and productive lives. Cuts only worsen economic conditions, increasing the state’s long term costs andContinue reading “Stop the War on the Poor: Montana’s Public Programs Under Siege”