Connecticut Senate Bill SB00309

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/19
• Refer: 1/23/19

Caption

An Act Extending Temporary Family Assistance To Encourage Employment.

Impact

If enacted, this bill has the potential to significantly impact state strategies for addressing unemployment and poverty. By allowing families to retain assistance longer after finding a job, the legislation aims to provide a buffer that can facilitate smoother transitions into the workforce. This extension could help families feel more secure in accepting job offers that may initially offer less financial stability than what they currently receive from assistance programs.

Summary

SB00309, titled 'An Act Extending Temporary Family Assistance To Encourage Employment,' seeks to amend existing legislation regarding temporary family assistance programs. Specifically, the bill proposes to extend the duration of assistance by up to twelve months for participants who secure employment that exceeds ninety percent of the program's payment standard. The underlying rationale is to encourage families receiving assistance to pursue employment opportunities without the immediate fear of losing financial support.

Contention

The proposed changes in SB00309 might attract various viewpoints. Supporters argue that by extending assistance, the bill directly supports low-income families during crucial job transitions, thereby promoting long-term self-sufficiency. On the other hand, critics may voice concerns regarding the financial implications for state welfare programs and the potential for unintended consequences, such as dependency on government assistance. These discussions could center around the balance between providing adequate support and encouraging job participation.