[Gabz]

This is better than having specific items as having specific items will cause a massive and prolonged debate over what to include on the list and what to leave off.

I can go along with that. However, who determines what the necessary monthly allottment should be? food and shelter costs vary greatly depending upon where one resides.

[Phantom Lord]

The proposal has regional adjustments.

[OHelix]

I'm not exactly sure who determines the poverty level, but it is the same system that has been in use for a long time. I also believe it is the same everywhere except Hawaii and Alaska where it is double everywhere else.