The problem, Fitzgerald said, is that only about one-third of those people have gone to work. Because the TANF program's work provision has severe punitive measures when a participant quits work or is terminated, many people are leaving the program altogether, Fitzgerald said. Sanctions include the loss of all assistance, including food stamps. Many program participants are not able to stay on the job because of logistical problems, Fitzgerald said. They need dependable transportation and child care.
Child care is another area the state is falling short.
With a new governor and a new administration, Fitzgerald said there is hope that the welfare reform programs can be fashioned to better serve poor Mississippians.