FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 17, 2012

Speaker Silver Applauds Governor Cuomo's Order Eliminating
Finger Imaging Requirement for Food Stamp Recipients


At a time when poverty and hunger are prevalent, there are a record number of New Yorkers dependent on social services. Food Stamps are a vital benefit to families, seniors and individuals with disabilities. They help individuals who are struggling to make ends meet put healthy food on the table. The practice of finger imaging is a barrier to acquiring this critical resource and we should be encouraging people to accept assistance, not making it harder for them to apply for social services. I applaud Governor Cuomo for his efforts to eliminate this requirement and restore dignity to those who are living on the margins during these difficult economic times.