Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
Children & Family Services Committee | |
HB 1190
Brief Description: Supporting the long-term success of families with children by removing barriers to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and the WorkFirst programs.
Sponsors: Representatives Pettigrew, Hinkle, Santos, Nixon, Kagi, Roberts, Darneille, Walsh, Haler, Appleton, Chase, Cody, Kenney, Clibborn, Ormsby, McIntire and Hasegawa.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: January 31, 2005.
Staff: Cynthia Forland (786-7152).
Background:
In 1996, the federal government enacted welfare reform, shifting the emphasis of the federal
program to a "Work First" approach. In 1997, Washington enacted its version of welfare reform,
establishing the WorkFirst program. The WorkFirst program emphasizes the importance of
gaining employment and staying employed. WorkFirst participants are assessed for employment
barriers which may include mental health, medical, or substance abuse issues that must be
addressed before an applicant can become fully employable.
Under the WorkFirst program, public assistance may be awarded to individuals who are in need
and otherwise meet the eligibility requirements of the program. Otherwise qualified individuals
may be required to participate in a drug or alcohol treatment program in order to receive benefits
if they have been assessed as drug- or alcohol-dependent and in need of treatment to become
employable.
In addition, in order to be eligible for assistance, an individual with a drug-related felony
conviction, after August 21, 1996, must:
Federal law permits states to opt out of the restrictions on public assistance for individuals with a drug-related felony conviction.
Summary of Bill:
Individuals are no longer ineligible for WorkFirst benefits on the basis of a drug-related felony
conviction or lack of a drug assessment or treatment.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is
passed.