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Tom Reed renewed his efforts to create opportunity for working families by introducing his proposal to help those who are disadvantaged get a 'HAND UP' out of poverty.

"We care about making sure families and individuals, especially the working poor, that are struggling in poverty get the help they need to regain their financial independence," said Reed. "It's only right to help them but also protect the taxpayer, and we do that by creating opportunity, making work pay and making these programs work more effectively."

Reed's proposal, the Help Americans in Need Develop their Ultimate Potential or HAND-UP Act, is designed to give states the flexibility to change how they administer social welfare programs such Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help make sure more money gets to those who need it and reduces government overhead.

"We have to give our state agencies the flexibility they need to make the decisions that can make these programs work most effectively, and get the regulations that prevent this out of the way," said Reed. "We can have smarter, smaller government that works if we come together and pull out all of the stops."

The bill also encourages states to find ways to save money without cutting benefits by making work pay, which creates a gradual reduction in benefits as income increases, rather than eliminating all benefits at a certain income threshold.

"Most people want to work and support themselves and their families, but we have policies in place that literally penalize them from doing that. I care about these folks and will stand with those committed to the American work ethic," said Reed.

Reed went on to call for jobs throughout the region. "The real way we solve this problem is through job growth," said Reed. "We have to bring back quality, family-sustaining jobs to our region and give people the opportunity to be successful."

The bill is awaiting further consideration by multiple committees.

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