U.S. Reps. Carol Miller (R-WV) and Ron Estes (R-KS) have introduced legislation they noted incentivizes employers to hire Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients and provide job skills training.
Legislation proponents indicated the Accelerating Individuals into the Workforce Act encourages employer-led partnerships with state and local agencies to strengthen the nation’s workforce.
“Creating new jobs, diversifying our economy, and supporting our business community is a top priority,” Miller said. “We should strive to provide the best resources for those entering the workforce to grow and be successful. By incentivizing employers to hire TANF recipients, new employees will receive on-the-job training and valuable experience to continue their careers. I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation and help get more Americans back to work.”
Per the bill, the TANF Contingency Fund would subsidize no more than half of the recipient’s wages, with the other half provided by the employer or state and local funds.
“The Accelerating Individuals into the Workforce Act will help get people back to work and make sure everyone has an opportunity to participate in the U.S. economy,” Estes said. “This bill fulfills the primary goal of TANF by supporting welfare recipients and connecting them with jobs, apprenticeships, and training. I look forward to working with my colleagues on this common-sense legislation.”
According to the measure, states would be required to report on the program outcomes.