The bill amends RCW 74.08A.210 to enhance economic assistance for individuals eligible for temporary assistance for needy families (TANF). It introduces a diversion program aimed at providing brief, emergency assistance to families in crisis who qualify based on their income and assets. The bill specifies that diversion assistance can include cash or vouchers for various needs such as child care, housing, transportation, food, medical costs, and employment-related expenses. Notably, the assistance is limited to once per 12-month period for each adult applicant and is capped at $2,000 for each instance.

Additionally, the bill clarifies eligibility criteria for diversion assistance, stating that families must be eligible for TANF and must provide evidence of a bona fide need. It also stipulates that if a recipient of diversion assistance is placed on TANF within 12 months of receiving assistance, the value of that assistance will be treated as a loan to be recovered from the recipient's cash grant. The new provisions will take effect on January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 74.08A.210
Bill as Passed Legislature: 74.08A.210
Session Law: 74.08A.210