A bill to break down barriers for young, low-income workers looking to obtain in-demand job skills could soon become law, according to State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville).
Goodrich
Currently, all money earned in a household is used to determine eligibility for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits. TANF is a program that provides cash assistance and supportive services to assist families with children under age 18, helping them achieve economic self-sufficiency.
If signed into law, House Enrolled Act 1009 would allow a Hoosier who is 24 years old or younger and resides in a home receiving TANF to earn up to $15,000 and not impact their family’s TANF eligibility. Goodrich said this would incentivize students from low-income families to pursue a college degree or workforce certificate, or participate in a pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship program.
“Many young Hoosiers choose not to pursue educational opportunities or work-based learning programs because the money they earn could push their families’ income eligibility requirements beyond the threshold, jeopardizing their assistance,” Goodrich said. “Families should be able to take a step forward and gain valuable skills, without taking two steps back and possibly worsening their financial situation.”
According to Goodrich, this legislation would also increase the state’s Earned Tax Credit to 10 percent, which could put more than $11 million back into the hands of low-income working families each year.
HEA 1009 is now eligible for action by the governor. To learn more, visit iga.in.gov.