Ohio House Bill HB464

Ohio 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/24

Caption

Enacts the A HAND UP Act

Impact

The A HAND UP pilot program represents a significant development in Ohio's approach to social services and employment support. This act not only provides funding of $10 million for fiscal years 2024 and 2025 to support program initiatives but also establishes frameworks that connect public assistance recipients with job opportunities and necessary resources. These resources include stipends for healthcare and childcare, which can ease the financial burden during the transition period, ultimately aiming to reduce long-term dependency on public assistance.

Summary

House Bill 464, known as the A HAND UP Act, aims to establish a three-year pilot program to assist individuals transitioning from public assistance benefits to the workforce. The Department of Job and Family Services (JFS) will implement this program by selecting four counties across different classifications, including metropolitan, midsize, and rural areas. The objective is to provide support mechanisms for participants, thereby facilitating their reintegration into the workforce as they become ineligible for assistance. Key components include eligibility criteria, employer participation, and mentorship programs that economically empower individuals.

Contention

While proponents of HB 464 might argue that this pilot program is a critical step toward enhancing the self-sufficiency of public assistance recipients, it may also face scrutiny regarding its effectiveness and reach. Potential concerns could arise about the adequacy of funding, the selection process for counties, and whether the proposed mentorship and financial literacy programs are sufficient to address the complex barriers faced by participants in successfully securing employment. The program's success will be monitored through annual reports detailing participants' outcomes post-enrollment, which will be essential for evaluating the impact of these initiatives.