As a demonstration pilot in eight counties, early results show MFIP is one of the most effective efforts in the country at moving long-term welfare recipients into work and out of poverty. The bill allows Minnesota to meet federal deadlines to begin implementing a new welfare program by July 1, and maximize available federal block grant dollars. Statewide MFIP will expect, support and reward work to help lift children out of poverty and prevent welfare dependency. Two-parent families will be required to immediately work to receive assistance. Single-parent families will be required to work within six months of receiving assistance to continue receiving aid.
Counties have theoption of requiring parents to go to work sooner.
Parents who fail to go to work or follow through with other activities to support their families will face swift sanctions of losing first 10 percent, then 30 percent of their grant. Those facing the 30 percent penalty will have their rent paid directly to their landlord. There will be a 60-month lifetime limit on the time parents can be on assistance. Those over age 60, ill, with disabilities, caring for family members with disabilities or experiencing a crisis are exempt from work requirements. Domestic abuse victims following safety plans will be temporarily exempt from time limits.