Transitional Jobs: Helping TANF Recipients with Barriers to Employment Succeed in the Labor Market

Publication Date: May 2006

Publisher: Center for Law and Social Policy

Author(s): Allegra Baider; Abbey Frank

Research Area: Labor; Social conditions

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) provisions in the fiscal year 2006 federal budget bill will require most states to substantially increase the number of TANF recipients participating in work-related activities. Many of the families who continue to receive cash assistance under TANF have significant barriers to employment; thus, it is essential that state strategies to increase participation address the needs and circumstances of these families.

This paper highlights transitional jobs, a promising strategy that can help TANF recipients with barriers succeed in the labor market while simultaneously helping states meet higher participation rates by engaging more participants in work activities.