The bills are sponsored by House Speaker Sara Gideon, D-Freeport, and Assistant House Minority Leader Trey Stewart, R-Presque Isle.
The term welfare cliff refers to the total loss of benefits that can occur when someone achieves even a relatively low level of income.
Supporters of the bills say losing benefits because of a relatively minor increase in income is a disincentive for people seeking a higher-paying job or to gain skills that allow them to earn more.
A coalition of organizations that advocate for the poor in Maine praised the votes Tuesday, urging Maine Gov. Janet Mills to sign the bills into law.
“The bipartisan effort we’ve seen to make a real difference for Maine families in our state is inspiring.
Stewart, in his testimony to the Legislature, said the measures are meant to encourage people to seek work.
“These hard-working individuals have aspirations for themselves and their families that far exceed their current situation and status,” Stewart said. »
