NPR Topics: National
Trapped in a Social Safety Net
Hide SummaryIn 1972, the federal government launched a program to support the poorest disabled and elderly Americans. Supplemental Security Income, run by the Social Security Administration, provides monthly checks that are a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable people in this country.
SSI was intended to serve as a powerful safety net and a tool for fighting poverty. But a recent NPR Investigation led by correspondent Joseph Shapiro has discovered a very different reality today.
In today's episode of The Sunday Story, Shapiro explains how SSI's outdated rules have made the system difficult to run and almost impossible for its beneficiaries to navigate. Impoverished disabled and elderly people say they have been penalized for trying to improve their lives for saving money, getting married, and even daring to have careers.Read more
SSI was intended to serve as a powerful safety net and a tool for fighting poverty. But a recent NPR Investigation led by correspondent Joseph Shapiro has discovered a very different reality today.
In today's episode of The Sunday Story, Shapiro explains how SSI's outdated rules have made the system difficult to run and almost impossible for its beneficiaries to navigate. Impoverished disabled and elderly people say they have been penalized for trying to improve their lives for saving money, getting married, and even daring to have careers.Read more
Abortion access in Missouri is in limbo despite November's constitutional amendment
Hide SummaryEven though a new constitutional amendment is in effect in Missouri, a Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Louis can't provide abortions. They are waiting for a judge to end Missouri's ban.Read more
Activists worry that Trump will bulldoze trans rights. Here's how they're preparing
Hide SummaryTrump's campaign promised policies targeting the transgender community once he's in office. LGBTQ groups face fear, anxiety and uncertainty as they prep for an anticipated challenging four years.Read more
Internet sleuths are trying to solve the New York CEO killing
Hide SummaryThe public is racing to find evidence that might lead to the gunman who killed health insurance CEO Brian Thompson. When does crowdsourcing detective work help police, and when can it cause harm?Read more
USDA orders testing across nation's milk supply amid rising bird flu cases
Hide SummaryThe virus has spread to over 710 dairy herds across 15 states, with California reporting the highest number of infections. At least 58 people have been infected with bird flu, including one child.Read more