A Means to an End: Integration of Welfare and Workforce Development Systems

Publication Date: October 2003

Publisher: Center for Law and Social Policy

Author(s): Mark Greenberg; Nisha Patel; Lisa Ranghelli

Research Area: Social conditions

Type: Report

Coverage: Florida Ohio Ohio Wisconsin

Abstract:

During the last decade, before and after implementation of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant, state welfare agencies became increasingly focused on linking low-income families with employment. At the same time, in implementing the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (WIA), states created one-stop centers and focused on addressing the fragmentation and duplication that has often plagued state employment and training programs. The transformation of state welfare and workforce systems has prompted states to assess the relationship between the two systems.

This report and policy brief describe how four states--Florida, Ohio, Utah, and Wisconsin--have approached integration of TANF and WIA services; how integration has affected TANF-eligible families, other workers and job seekers, employers, and state and local governments; possible lessons learned from early experiences; and policy implications. A concluding section offers recommendations for state and federal policymakers.