# Plain Language Summary: Improving Transparency in TANF through Data Act

This bill makes states report more detailed information about people receiving TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), which is the main federal welfare program that helps low-income families with cash assistance. Right now, states report some data about who receives benefits, but this bill requires them to collect and share much more specific information about what recipients are actually doing—particularly whether they're working or participating in work-related activities.

The key change is that states must now track and report detailed information about each person's work status and activities. For people who are supposed to be working or preparing for work, states have to report exactly how many hours per month they're spending on actual jobs or other activities designed to help them find employment. If someone isn't participating in these activities, the state must report why—whether it's because they have a disability, are caring for a young child, or some other reason. The bill also requires states to report on people who aren't required to work at all and explain their status. Additionally, states must collect better information about employment and earnings outcomes so the federal government can track whether TANF is actually helping people get jobs and earn income.

For welfare recipients, this means their activities and work status will be tracked and reported more thoroughly to federal authorities. For states administering the program, this creates new data collection and reporting requirements that will likely require additional staff and systems to track this information. The changes take effect on October 1, 2022, giving states time to set up the new reporting systems. The goal is to create better visibility into how the welfare program is working and whether it's successfully moving people toward employment.

Improving Transparency in TANF through Data Act

Schweikert, David

Improving Transparency in TANF through Data Act This bill revises state reporting requirements under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Family (TANF) program. It eliminates the option for states to use certain sampling methods in their reporting and requires states to report additional information related to the work eligibility status and participation in work activities for individuals participating in TANF programs. The Department of Health and Human Services must also determine reporting requirements related to employment and earnings outcomes in consultation with the Department of Labor.