Resolution on Increasing Minimum Wage and Other Supports for Low-Income Families

Whereas the Torah commands us to be concerned for fair treatment of low-wage earners: “You shall not oppress a needy and destitute laborer…you must pay him his wages on the same day…for he is needy and urgently depends on it” (Deuteronomy 24:14-15; cf. Leviticus 19:13) and

Resolution on United States Food Policy and International Aid

Background

The United States Farm Bill, a comprehensive piece of legislation addressing many aspects of U.S. agriculture and food policy, is up for reauthorization in 2012 (see Resolution #7 which affirms RA support of SNAP [formerly known as Food Stamps]. Virtually all international food aid provided by the U.S. is included within the Farm Bill. This year, a coalition of Jewish organizations, including the Rabbinical Assembly, has formed the Jewish Farm Bill Working Group in an effort to bring about needed reforms to the delivery of this international food aid.

Resolution in Support of Stem Cell Research and Education

WHEREAS there is a serious shortage of organs available for transplantation, leading to thousands of deaths each year;

WHEREAS serious illnesses and conditions leading to disability and often death may be ameliorated or cured through new technologies;

Resolution on Health Care in the United States

WHEREAS human life is of infinite value (Genesis 1:27) and preservation of life supersedes almost all other considerations (pikuah nefesh);

WHEREAS the revered rabbinic scholar and physician, Maimonides, taught that health care was a primary communal responsibility (Mishneh Torah Hilkhot De’ot 4:23);

WHEREAS the Shulkhan Arukh states, “Doctors are required to reduce their fees for the poor. Where that is still not sufficient the community should subsidize the patient.” (Yoreh Deah 249);