But although demand for labor is high, many workers in both states, especially those coming off welfare, are finding it hard to connect with decent paying jobs. Now, two years after state welfare reform plans went into effect, advocates in both states have pulled together agendas for helping low-income workers, including those coming off welfare, take the next steps toward a more stable economic future. In Illinois, the Work, Welfare and Families coalition held a series of community meetings around the state last fall on the impact of welfare reform. Out of those meetings came a set of proposals to help working families. Another proposal would make it easier for new workers to get unemployment insurance, so that they don't have to go back on welfare during temporary jobless periods.
Research shows that earnings go up with each year of additional education.
That opportunity should be available to all working people. Meanwhile, a similar coalition in Minnesota has crafted its agenda with an eye toward the critical labor shortage facing the state. What's missing is the infrastructure to connect them. Key pieces include expanding job training, building affordable housing in job-rich communities, and expanding the state's Working Family Tax Credit. Both projects will use media to communicate the message that many working families need help to rise above poverty.