First, Second Substitute House Bill 1447 will make key improvements to the Temporary Assistance For Needy Families (TANF) program including:
- Eliminating time limits for child-only cases, restoring pre-2011 policy
- Expanding asset limits and waiving the value of one car, allowing families to build up savings
- Protecting $250 of monthly income, smoothing the benefits cliff
- Allowing hardship as a "good cause" exemption from WorkFirst requirements, giving families time to stabilize without losing benefits.
Second, ESHB 1652 will ensure that 100% of child support paid by a non-custodial parent will be passed through to children whose families are on TANF. Research indicates that child support pass-through policy leads to more non-custodial parents paying child support, because they know it will be directly supporting their child. This would increase financial stability for low-income families.
Third, ESHB 1260 would end the unfair requirement for adults with disabilities to repay the state for their ABD benefits when they transfer onto federal social security income and allow ABD recipients to meet their basic needs.
Fourth, 2SHB 1405 would end the unfair garnishment of SSI benefits from children with disabilities in the foster care system and ensure that children receive their SSI payments.
Fifth, 2SHB1559 Postsecondary Students Basic Needs Act will help students connect with and make more efficient use of public benefits including Basic Food, TANF, housing supports, and child care. When students have the resources they need, they are likelier to complete coursework on time and are better positioned for finding employment and pursuing other advancements after graduation.
Finally, 2SHB1238 School Meals for All will expand access for an additional 225 low income schools to provide meals at no cost to all students. We should continue on this pathway to provide meals without barriers or stigma: students can focus on learning which contributes to a healthier, more effective learning environment, making the most out of state investments in our education system.
These bills all work to expand access to direct cash assistance and other support to help low-income Washingtonians meet their basic needs for housing, food, healthcare, and other necessities.
Urge the Senate Ways and Means Committee to hear and pass 2SHB 1447, ESHB 1652, ESHB 1260, and 2SHB 1405, 2SHB 1559, and 2SHB 1238 to support low-income Washingtonians!
