Going forward, Mississippi residents who need help paying their rent or utilities will no longer be able to apply for the federal government’s rental assistance program.
Governor Tate Reeves instructed the Mississippi Home Corporation two weeks ago to stop accepting applications after Monday, August 15, arguing that the decision will force people back into the workforce.
“Mississippi will continue to say no to these types of liberal handouts that encourage people to stay out of the workforce,” Reeves said. “Instead, we’re going to say yes to conservative principles and policies that result in more people working.”
Democratic lawmakers such as Senate Minority Leader Derrick Simmons and Representative Earle Banks of House District 67 have pleaded with the governor, asking him to reconsider the executive order as people continue to be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision will also force Mississippi to return up to $130 million in federal dollars.
As of Monday afternoon, Reeves is standing firm in his decision to terminate Mississippi’s participation in the program, effective Tuesday.
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