Findings on Current AFDC Work Programs and Implications for Pending Legislation

GAO discussed the current Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) work programs and their implications for pending legislation. GAO believes that: (1) the current multiplicity of program authorizations results in a division of responsibility and duplication of effort between state agencies, complex and conflicting regulations, and unintentional incentives created by disparate funding levels; (2) AFDC work programs are serving a minority of the AFDC case load and are concentrating on beneficiaries who least need assistance; and (3) current programs provide low-cost job search services helpful to participants who are job-ready, but do little to resolve the employment problems of those with little education or work experience. GAO also believes that Congress should consider legislation that: (1) encourages states to target AFDC work programs and services at the remedial educational and vocational training level to a more needy clientele; (2) encourages the provision of support services during and after participation in a work program and provides for performance standards that reflect gains in employability and the potential for jobs found that lead to self-sufficiency; (3) consolidates the current multiplicity of AFDC work programs into one comprehensive program; and (4) requires the collection of standardized information about program participants, activities, and outcomes.