| As federal officials begin to consider TANF reauthorization, it is
crucial that they consider the following elements to ensure ongoin
success. PROVIDE MORE OPTIONS FOR ALLOWABLE WORK ACTIVITIES -- This
exemption came about in part because of abuses by the system under AFDC
job programs. Since there is a time limit, and the caseload exists largely
of those clients who are hard to place and have multiple barriers to work,
it would be beneficial to expand educational activities. Education
programs, like training programs, have a direct link to job placement and
should be considered as allowable activities under TANF work requirements.
FACILITATE A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN TANF AND WIA. The Farm Bill that is
pending in Congress proposes to align eligibility between TANF, Medicaid
and Food Stamp programs.This is a move toward simplification between
programs that serve virtually the same individuals. So is the case for
TANF and WIA. Both target low income families and assist them in becoming
prepared for and gain access to the workforce. At the state level, many
states are combining agencies that implement TANF and WIA in order to
provide a more streamlined program and to better assist business needs.
The federal TANF and WIA laws and regulations also need to be better
aligned to enhance states' ability to administer workforce programs. The
opportunities that program alignment would provide are endless and would
greatly benefit a system where two programs are now competing for the same
clients. |
