If the demand for benefits exceeds available funds, the needy could be placed on a waiting list for cash aid or sent into the streets. In the absence of resources and political will, block grants will increase the likelihood of poverty for those in need. Localities will have to pick up the tab for the rising economic costs of shelters, foster care, and prisons, but also the social costs that accompany the presence of high numbers of sick, homeless, hungry, and jobless residents. Means maintaining the federal guarantee to assist the poor and improving its reach through universal and comprehensive programs. Block grants offer state and local governments more control over programs.
Block grants offer states greater control but fewer federal dollars to do anything.
State action will also be stymied by new federal regulations that mandate increasingly punitive measures, and that end the 60 year old federal guarantee of support for the poor. The linchpin of the US welfare state are the entitlements. Replacing them with block grants is a critical step for those seeking to dismantle the entire system. Uses federal powers to protect, not to punish the poor. Restore welfare's entitlement status, federalize public assistance, and strengthen our commitment to the downtrodden.