SB 6241-S2 - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/14/00)

     Declares an intent to ensure that the WorkFirst program leads to substantial increases in hourly wages and quarterly earnings, and high levels of job retention.  The legislature acknowledges that receipt of food stamps, medicaid, and child care benefits provide wage supports that can raise families' standard of living and prevent families from returning to cash assistance because they need health care, child care, or are hungry.

     Declares an intent to adopt performance measures and goals for increases in hourly wages, quarterly earnings, job retention, and access to benefits that support work for WorkFirst participants who have entered unsubsidized paid employment. It is also the intent of the legislature to direct the department of social and health services to establish and meet customer service measures and goals for the WorkFirst program.  These measures shall be used to assess the effectiveness of the WorkFirst program in promoting a rising standard of living, stable employment, and career advancement for WorkFirst participants who enter unsubsidized paid employment.

     Declares an intent of the legislature that the program's performance in achieving these goals shall be published and made available to the legislature and the general public on a quarterly basis.