S.1567 - Jobs and Opportunity with Benefits and Services (JOBS) for Success Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The "Jobs and Opportunity with Benefits and Services (JOBS) for Success Act of 2025" (S.1567) aims to reauthorize and reform the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. The bill focuses on increasing work participation, measuring work outcomes, and targeting funds to needy families and core program purposes. It also includes provisions for program integrity, data reporting, and state plan approval by HHS.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to stricter requirements for TANF recipients to engage in work activities and increased accountability for states in achieving employment outcomes. States may need to adjust their TANF programs to comply with the new regulations, including revised data reporting and performance measurement standards. Some states may see a reduction in federal funding if they fail to meet the new performance metrics.
Potential Benefits
- Increased focus on work outcomes may lead to higher employment rates among TANF recipients.
- Targeting funds to core purposes could improve the effectiveness of TANF programs in addressing poverty.
- Strengthening program integrity may reduce improper payments and ensure funds are used appropriately.
- The inclusion of poverty reduction as a program purpose could lead to more comprehensive strategies for assisting needy families.
- The set-aside for economic downturns could provide a safety net during periods of economic hardship.
Potential Disadvantages
- Stricter work requirements may create barriers for some TANF recipients, particularly those with limited skills or childcare needs.
- The prohibition on using funds for families with income greater than twice the poverty line could exclude some families who need assistance.
- The reduction in the limitation of funds for administrative activities may strain state resources.
- The prohibition on using funds for direct spending on child care services or activities could limit access to affordable child care for TANF recipients.
- Increased state accountability and performance metrics may lead to states prioritizing easily employable individuals, potentially overlooking those with greater needs.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution (Article I, Section 8), which empowers Congress to provide for the general welfare of the United States. By reforming TANF and focusing on work outcomes and poverty reduction, the bill aims to promote the well-being of needy families. The emphasis on state accountability and program integrity also aligns with the principle of responsible governance.
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).