FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 20, 2002

Forty States Likely to Cut Access to Postsecondary Training or Education Under House-Passed Welfare Bill press release

 

 

 

For immediate release                                                   Contact: John Hutchins,           

Thursday, June 20, 2002                                              (202) 906-8013, or

Gayle Bennett, (202) 906-8024

 

Forty States Likely to Cut Access to Postsecondary Training or Education Under House-Passed Welfare Bill

 

A new survey of state Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) policies shows that at least 40 states currently allow more access to postsecondary training or education services than would be countable under H.R. 4737, the welfare reauthorization bill passed by the House in May.  If the House bill were to become law, these states would likely have to reduce access to these services for welfare recipients in order to avoid penalties.  A recent review by CLASP of research on welfare-to-work strategies shows that access to training is an essential component if these programs are to have a lasting impact for welfare recipients. 

 

In addition, at least 23 states allow more access than is countable toward federal work rates under current law, something that is possible only because of the caseload reduction credit.  If in reauthorization Congress increases effective work participation rates by changing the caseload reduction credit and the rates themselves, and does not extend the time that training counts toward work rates, then these 23 states are also likely to have to reduce access to postsecondary training or education. 

 

To read the full analysis of this survey, visit: http://www.clasp.org/pubs/jobseducation/Postsec_survey_061902.htm

 

To view CLASP's recent review of research on welfare-to-work strategies, Built to Last: Why Skills Matter for Lasting Success in Welfare Reform, by Karin Martinson and Julie Strawn, visit: http://www.clasp.org/pubs/jobseducation/Built_to_Last_final_051302.pdf

 

 

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A national, nonprofit organization founded in 1968, CLASP conducts research, policy analysis, technical assistance, and advocacy on issues related to economic security of low-income families with children.