Bill > HB1463

This bill modifies the existing rules for temporary assistance for needy families (TANF), a cash assistance program for low-income families, by expanding exemptions to the 60-month lifetime limit on receiving benefits. Specifically, the bill adds a new hardship criterion that allows families to continue receiving TANF benefits if terminating or denying cash assistance would result in financial distress. This addition comes alongside existing exemptions, such as having a homeless child, receiving benefits during high unemployment periods (7% or higher), experiencing family violence, or having a child under two years old. The bill maintains that recipients can only be exempted from the time limit after receiving 52 months of assistance, and continues to require the department of social services to refer recipients to specialized assistance programs and provide transitional food assistance for five months after TANF benefits end. The changes aim to provide more flexibility and support for families facing economic challenges, recognizing that abruptly cutting off assistance could cause significant hardship for vulnerable households.