31.   The legislation that Clinton is to sign Monday overrides a law that prohibits U.S. food assistance from being given to combatants before they demobilize, the aide said.

32.   The Republicans argue that such a block grant would allow states to distribute food assistance to the poor more freely, and that it would save billions.

33.   The statement, released on the official North Korean news agency, was intended to bolster appeals by the United Nations for international food assistance for North Korea.

34.   The warning came as Russian officials announced that they are seeking more food assistance this year.

35.   The United States may also ease its sanctions against North Korea and, together with Japan, send some food assistance.

36.   They are left to shift for themselves without food assistance.

37.   To qualify for this option, states would have to dispense food assistance with plastic cards like those used in automated teller machines at banks.

38.   Under the agreement with House Republicans, state officials could cut or eliminate food assistance and cash welfare benefits for adults who refused to work.

39.   Under the proposal, she added, states would be both tempted and allowed to shift money from food assistance to other programs like employment and training.

40.   Washington and its allies have delayed signing an agreement on funds for the nuclear deal and Japan also plans to suspend food assistance and talks on diplomatic recognition.