State TANF Policies and Data
TANF is a flexible block grant, with states allowed extensive discretion in both policy and the use of TANF funds. CLASP monitors state choices in these areas to inform federal policymakers, and provides technical assistance to state policymakers and advocates on options available to them. To see the specific state TANF programs and their respective administrating agencies >>.
Supporting School Success for Children Receiving TANF
This week, committees in the Tennessee legislature approved a bill that would cut parents' TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) cash assistance benefits if their children failed to be promoted to the next grade at school. This proposal is based on an inaccurate and stereotyped belief that poor parents need to be coerced into caring about their children's school achievement. If enacted, it will create new paperwork burdens for schools and welfare agencies, already straining under budget cuts. Most importantly, it risks pushing the most vulnerable children even deeper into poverty.
If legislators really want to improve educational outcomes for children whose families receive TANF, here are some policies that would actually make a difference.
- Matt Lewis, Elizabeth Kenefick, and Elizabeth Lower-Basch | Oct 01, 2012 Random Drug Testing of TANF Recipients is Costly, Ineffective and Hurts Families
- Elizabeth Lower-Basch | Mar 02, 2012 Why Drug Testing Public Benefit Recipients Is a Distraction
- Elizabeth Lower-Basch | Nov 08, 2011 Big Ideas for Job Creation: Rethinking Work Opportunity - From Tax Credits to Subsidized Job Placements
- Vickie Choitz and Julie Strawn | Oct 03, 2011 CLASP Testimony for the Record on Nontraditional Students
- Elizabeth Lower-Basch | Mar 14, 2011 Testimony Before House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Human Resources