Billions of dollars are at stake. With new federal rules, it’s up to state lawmakers to ensure that programs like food stamps serve those in need without wasting taxpayer dollars.
The president cites fraud concerns, while state officials call the plan politically motivated and warn of impacts on social services.
Federal policy changes stand to make it harder for local governments to cope with housing instability and homelessness. There are some things they can do to brace for what’s coming.
With more residents required to work to qualify for SNAP and funding shifting to states, Missouri’s system shows what may await programs across the country.
Under the plan, Texas newborns would get $1,000 placed into stock-market investments, potentially doubling the benefit from the federal program passed this year.
Program and tax changes in the massive budget reconciliation bill are reshaping states’ short- and long-term fiscal pictures. How will policymakers respond?
HUD’s shift from permanent housing to short-term programs could force formerly homeless residents back onto the streets and strain local budgets.
State and local financial managers face the impact of federal aid cutbacks, plus new rules and even some opportunities. It’s time to focus on what’s practical and necessary, both near and longer term.
How one organization in Pasadena, Calif., is mobilizing amid a shortage of federal food aid during the government shutdown.
States are reducing subsidy slots, slashing provider reimbursement rates and raising co-pays for low-income parents amid shrinking federal aid.
Federal funding is a bigger share of state budgets than ever. It comes with too many strings and strictures that choke off efficiency and innovation, and it threatens democratic self-governance.
State humanities councils connect Americans with their past and each other. That work is under threat due to federal cuts.
The administration has eliminated funding for many local projects it deems "hostile" to motor vehicles.
Congress has substantially increased support for the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program. That should help finance thousands more units.
A new report from the Government Accountability Office details the ways that recent changes have diminished FEMA capacity. Local officials responsible for response and recovery want to be part of the conversation about what comes next.
States are spending a lot of their federal TANF money on things that don’t help families that need it the most, and work reporting requirements keep too many families from accessing benefits.
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