State-level data on TANF policy changes during the COVID-19 pandemic

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Policy
• Economics

Background:

• COVID-19 mitigation measures led to widespread revisions in U.S. welfare program administration.
• States implemented varied policies to address pandemic-related challenges in program compliance and increased financial need.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document changes made to state Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) programs between March 2020 and December 2020.
• To provide data for a larger study on the health effects of TANF policy shifts during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• The dataset captures 24 types of policies enacted by state TANF programs.
• Information includes which states enacted policies, their effective dates, and end dates where applicable.
• Focuses on TANF, a primary cash assistance program with conditional benefits often tied to work requirements.

Main Results:

• Some states relaxed TANF rules and increased benefits due to pandemic-induced difficulties in meeting program criteria.
• The dataset details specific policy enactments, state participation, and policy timelines.

Conclusions:

• The collected data enables the study of TANF policy modifications' impact on health and programmatic outcomes.
• Understanding these policy shifts is crucial for assessing support for low-income families during crises.