As budget reconciliation negotiations continue in Washington, some congressional Republicans see an opportunity to improve social welfare programs by strengthening work requirements. Just last month, Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) and Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) introduced the SNAP Reform and Upward Mobility Act. This follows the Let’s Get to Work Act from Rep. Mike Kennedy (R-UT) and Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) released earlier this year.
Given the evidence of work requirements’ positive impact and broad popularity, this approach is understandable. It’s also incomplete.
Unlocking upward mobility for millions of struggling people who feel trapped on government assistance also requires reevaluating the government-constructed barriers that can disincentivize people from working or pursuing professional advancement. Congressional leaders should start by eliminating “benefits cliffs,” the most pernicious work disincentive.
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“Benefits
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