FAQ for HB 402: Alaska Temporary Assistance Program

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Session:
State Capitol, Room 104
Juneau, AK 99801-1182
Phone: (907) 465-2199
Fax: (907) 465-4587

Interim:
10928 Eagle River Rd., Suite 140
Eagle River, AK 99577
Phone: (907) 694-6683
Fax: (907) 694-1015

"An Act relating to diversion payments, wage subsidies, cash assistance, and self-sufficiency services provided under the Alaska temporary assistance program; relating to the food stamp program; relating to child support cases that include persons who receive cash assistance or self-sufficiency services under the Alaska temporary assistance program; and providing for an effective date."

For Immediate Release:	May 10, 2002
Contact:	House HESS Committee at (907) 465-3759

For five years, the Alaska Temporary Assistance Program has assisted families in transitioning to work and self-sufficiency. Many of the changes in HB 402 were initiated as responses to the research of the American Institute for Full Employment. The Division of Public Assistance has incorporated that research, in addition to proposals by the bill's sponsors, to improve program policy with the goal of successful outcomes for families. This resulting legislation contains these major points:

Conversion of Food Stamp allotments for use as a wage subsidy provides an incentive to employers to hire or create new jobs for applicants otherwise less job-ready.
Increases in the amount of diversion payments from an amount equal to two months to three months of benefits will provide an incentive to families to use diversion, rather than entering the program.
Progressive sanctions promote adherence to program rules and ultimately, encourage self-sufficiency.
Clarification of the distinction between cash assistance and self-sufficiency services allows the Department to provide work-related supports and services, such as transportation and clothing, to families whose cash benefit has ended.

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Attachments:

Sponsor Statement for HB 402
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| Rep. Dyson's Page | House HESS Committee's Page |

· Work First - Alaska's New Direction for Welfare Reform

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· House Bill Emphasizes Work Over Welfare

· Dept. of Public Assistance

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