Bill Would Allow for 48 Straight Months of Cash Assistance
Friday, May 11, 2012
A bill that would simplify administration of the RI Works program and further work to boost employment numbers in the state has passed the Senate and will be heading to the House of Representatives.
“These changes would lead to more meaningful, long-lasting employment,” said Sen. Juan M. Pichardo (D-Dist. 2, Providence), the prime sponsor of the bill. “Instead of having two separate 24-month maximum periods on cash assistance, there will be one 48-month limit. More importantly, this legislation allows potential employees to put together a quality work plan. There won’t be a disruptive break in between where one has to worry about accepting a short-term job before the next period of assistance.”
The RI Works program exists to help parents who are eligible for cash assistance to support their children by preparing for, accepting and retaining employment. Initially enacted in 2008, the program provides employment and support services, as well as temporary cash assistance, so parents can work rather than solely depend on public assistance to support their families. With a multi-year carryover of federal funds totaling $7 million, the Department of Human Services would be able to cover improvements to the program using federal monies.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTThe legislation (2012-S 2764) looks to increase workforce participation in the program by eliminating the two-tiered time limit of 24-month maximums, streamlining the process for developing an appropriate employment plan and increasing program accountability by requiring the state Department of Human Services to produce an annual report. The Senate passed the bill in a 32 to 3 vote.
It also allows a recipient to begin receiving aid immediately while he or she begins to develop a work plan. Currently, an applicant must fill out an employment plan in order to be eligible for cash assistance, which advocates of the bill say rushes the process and takes away from successful job placement.
Proponents of the legislation include the Economic Progress Institute, the Rhode Island Interfaith Coalition to Reduce Poverty, the Rhode Island National Organization for Women, Connecting for Children and Families and Rhode Island Kids Count.
