Senate reports say the proposed law to institutionalize the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) does not advance during the current special session because of a disagreement over a specific “anti-epal” clause. Sen. Erwin Tulfo says the bill is held up after the House of Representatives rejects a provision that would bar politicians from participating in the distribution of assistance under the AICS program. According to Tulfo, although other bills move forward during the special session, the AICS measure reaches a deadlock and misses passage on the planned timeline. The contention centers on whether elected officials should be restricted from any involvement in aid delivery tied to the program. With the House and Senate positions not aligned, the bill remains stuck and cannot proceed to the next stages needed for final approval. The dispute reflects differences in how lawmakers want to structure safeguards and participation rules for government assistance intended for individuals facing crisis situations.