A JOINT RESOLUTION directing executive branch agencies to undertake efforts to address the benefits cliff in Kentucky.
Impact
The resolution mandates the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to review and identify federal law flexibilities that would allow Kentucky to tier public assistance benefits, rather than fully terminating them with a slight increase in income. This could prevent many low-income families from falling back into poverty and increase their economic mobility. Additionally, it encourages the cabinet to study the financial implications of recent adjustments to the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and potentially modify them to be cost-neutral while minimizing the risks of benefits cliffs for recipients.
Summary
HJR39 is a joint resolution directing executive branch agencies in Kentucky to undertake measures to address the benefits cliff, a situation where individuals and families lose public assistance benefits due to a marginal increase in income. Recognizing that this sudden loss can undermine financial stability and create barriers to sustained employment, the resolution aims to promote policies that allow for a gradual phase-out of benefits. This approach seeks to reduce the adverse impact of income increases on eligibility for vital support programs like childcare assistance, which can amount to significant financial losses for low-income working families.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HJR39 appears supportive among lawmakers who recognize the necessity of reforming public assistance structures to enhance job participation without penalizing income advancement. Advocates express optimism that this resolution could empower families to make better financial decisions without the fear of losing essential support. However, elements of caution exist, urging careful consideration of fiscal impacts and the need for adequate funding to ensure the proposed changes can be sustainably implemented.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of the benefits cliff calculator tool, a resource designed to aid beneficiaries in understanding the relationship between their income changes and eligibility for various forms of assistance. While proponents argue this tool will promote informed decision-making, concerns linger about data privacy and the efficiency of the tool’s integration into existing public assistance outreach efforts. The challenge will be to find a balance between necessary reforms and potential unintended consequences for both recipients and the state's financial health.
Directing The Department Of Health And Social Services To Conduct A Review Of Statewide Benefit Cliffs And Identify Actionable Strategies To Alleviate Cliff Effects That Contribute To Alice Outcomes.
A JOINT RESOLUTION directing the Transportation Cabinet to study the environmental impact of the use of road salt on Kentucky highways and the costs and benefits of using salt alternatives.