H.R.1859 - Apprenticeship Opportunity Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1859, the Apprenticeship Opportunity Act, aims to amend the Social Security Act to exclude income earned during the first year of a registered apprenticeship program when determining eligibility for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). This exclusion is intended to incentivize participation in apprenticeship programs by removing a potential barrier to receiving TANF benefits. The bill also outlines penalties for states that fail to comply with this requirement, reducing their TANF block grant by 1% for non-compliance.
Expected Effects
This bill, if enacted, would likely increase enrollment in apprenticeship programs among TANF recipients. States would need to adjust their TANF eligibility criteria to comply with the new federal mandate. The penalty for non-compliance would likely encourage states to implement the change effectively.
Potential Benefits
- Increased participation in apprenticeship programs.
- Reduced dependence on TANF in the long term as apprentices gain skills and employment.
- Improved economic mobility for low-income individuals.
- Enhanced workforce development and a more skilled labor pool.
- Potential for increased tax revenue as more individuals become employed.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased TANF costs in the short term as more individuals become eligible.
- Administrative burden for states to implement and monitor the income exclusion.
- Risk of fraud or abuse if the apprenticeship programs are not properly vetted.
- Possible unintended consequences if the income exclusion disincentivizes work beyond the apprenticeship.
- The 1% penalty for non-compliance could strain state budgets.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution (Preamble), as it aims to promote the well-being of low-income families by encouraging participation in apprenticeship programs. Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare, and this bill falls under that purview. The bill also operates within the existing framework of the Social Security Act, which has been previously upheld as constitutional.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).