As we continue to work with States to improve their systems, we will also focus on privacy concerns associated with these types of activities. Finally, with the introduction of a potentially greater tribal role in the child support enforcement program, we are aware of the special needs of tribes related to automation. We will work closely with tribes wishing to take advantage of the new authority in their planning for automated child support enforcement systems. There is no disagreement that the current system does not create a significant incentive for long-term investment necessary for the achievement of program goals and is in need of improvement. Under current law, a minimum incentive payment is made to all States, regardless of whether performance is good or poor.
States can run inefficient programs and still make a profit.
An improved results-based incentive system, like that envisioned in the legislation, would take into account other measurable program results such as paternity establishment, order establishment, collections and cost efficiency. A better incentive system might also reward the States with the best and most improved performance in these areas. This does not allow much time, but I am happy to report on the success we have had in laying the foundation by reviewing measures that might be used in changing the incentive payment system. As you are aware, OCSE was designated as a pilot for the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993. OCSE is just finishing up the two year pilot phase of its implementation of GPRA and is reviewing with the Executive Branch the successes and problems associated with that effort.