The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Cash Assistance by expanding the definition of "child only case." Under the new law, a "child only case" would include not only situations where an eligible dependent child is in the legal custody of the Department of Child Safety or a tribal court and placed in foster care, but also cases where the child is living with a nonparent relative who is responsible for meeting the child's basic needs and is not receiving cash assistance. This change aims to broaden eligibility for cash assistance to more children in need.

Additionally, the bill specifies that for child only cases, the total gross countable income of the family will still be limited to 130 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, but it removes the requirement that the nonparent relative head of household must not be applying for or receiving cash assistance. The eligibility and benefit amount for child only cases will be determined based solely on the income of the dependent child, with the benefit amount based on available funds as determined by the Department of Economic Security.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 46-101, 46-292, 104-193, 8-872
Senate Engrossed Version: 46-101, 46-292, 104-193, 8-872