Mississippi House Bill HB970

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

TANF funds; prohibit use of for college scholarships for persons not receiving TANF benefits.

Impact

If enacted, this amendment will predominantly affect educational funding frameworks associated with TANF. The restriction aims to redefine eligibility and usage of social welfare funds explicitly for those who are currently receiving TANF assistance. It will potentially lead to a decrease in available funds for higher education assistance and could drive broader discussions about the allocation of welfare resources toward educational support versus direct family assistance. This specificity intends to ensure that benefits are utilized effectively for low-income families in need rather than being diverted to college scholarships.

Summary

House Bill 970 seeks to amend Section 43-17-5 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, specifically restricting the use of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds. The bill asserts that TANF funds cannot be utilized to pay for college scholarships for individuals who do not receive TANF benefits. This legislative move emphasizes focusing on direct support for recipients of TANF, rather than extending funds to those outside the immediate purview of the program, which is designed to aid underprivileged families.

Contention

However, the bill could provoke debate over its implications on access to higher education for low-income individuals who might not currently receive TANF but are in need of financial support. Critics may argue that this restrictive measure could limit educational opportunities and reinforce social disparities, while supporters might frame it as a prudent management of limited state resources. The discussion around this bill could reflect deeper societal values regarding education funding and welfare support, potentially polarizing opinions among legislators and constituents alike.