Distance Learning Can Help Low-Income Parents Attend School: TANF Agencies Should Adopt Supportive Policies

Publication Date: March 2008

Publisher: Center for Law and Social Policy

Author(s): Matt Lewis

Research Area: Education

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

In the wake of the interim rules implementing the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, several states have expressed concerns about distance learning programs meeting the work verification requirements established by the US Department of Health and Human Services under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.

This paper identifies language from HHS-approved work verification plans that other states can adopt in order to maximize access to distance learning and raise work participation rates. It also highlights some restrictive and burdensome language that should be dropped from work verification plans.