Public Comment Written Comments in Response to House Committee on Ways and Means Hearing on Reforming Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
Subtitle
States’ Misuse of Welfare Funds Leaves Poor Families Behind
Heather Hahn
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This comment follows the House Committee on Ways and Means Hearing on Reforming Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): States’ Misuse of Welfare Funds Leaves Poor Families Behind, held on September 24, 2024. Hahn argues that using TANF funds for activities seemingly unrelated to the program’s core goals, even if technically legal, undermines the integrity of TANF. The comment also provides supporting evidence that parents with low incomes have intrinsic motivations for employment, that TANF work requirements can be counterproductive, and that shifting TANF funding to the broader workforce development system could leave recipient families behind. Drawing on Hahn’s expertise in TANF policy and practice, the comment offers evidence-based recommendations on how access to and accountability for TANF block grant funds can better ensure the program supports employment and children in need.

Research and Evidence Family and Financial Well-Being Tax and Income Supports
Expertise Social Safety Net Families
Tags Assistance for women and children Economic well-being Families with low incomes Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
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