H.R.2284 - Reduce Bureaucracy to Uplift Families Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2284, the "Reduce Bureaucracy to Uplift Families Act," aims to amend Title IV of the Social Security Act. The bill seeks to limit the percentage of funds available for state block grants for temporary assistance for needy families (TANF) that can be used for administrative expenses. It reduces the allowable percentage from 15% to 10% and includes case management in allowable expenses.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is a reduction in the amount of TANF funds states can use for administrative purposes. This could lead to a shift in how states allocate TANF funds, potentially prioritizing direct assistance over administrative functions. The bill also introduces penalties for non-compliance with the administrative limitations.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for more direct aid: By limiting administrative costs, a larger portion of TANF funds could be directed towards needy families.
- Increased accountability: The penalty for non-compliance may encourage states to be more fiscally responsible with TANF funds.
- Focus on case management: Explicitly including case management as an allowable expense could improve individual responsibility plans.
- Reduced bureaucracy: The bill aims to streamline the TANF program by reducing administrative overhead.
- Potential for long-term self-sufficiency: By focusing on case management, the bill could help individuals develop plans for self-sufficiency.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for reduced administrative effectiveness: Cutting administrative funds could hinder effective program management and oversight.
- Possible strain on state resources: States may struggle to administer TANF programs with reduced administrative budgets.
- Unintended consequences: Reduced administrative capacity could lead to errors or delays in providing assistance.
- Limited flexibility for states: The bill restricts states' ability to allocate TANF funds based on their specific needs.
- Potential for reduced innovation: Less funding for administration could stifle innovation in program design and implementation.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble). Congress has the power to legislate and appropriate funds for programs aimed at promoting the general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
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).