I hope that new technologies modeled after the Internet emerge as the right way to do this. Rather than building the big database in the sky, we have the technology available to dynamically link to existing databases all over the world. By promulgating some standards for data elements, we can create an ad hoc data exchange that will be flexible and scalable. It is still very unclear how states will get the data necessary to meet time lines or to validate eligibility for benefits under new requirements. Since each state, and in some states each county, has the flexibility to define how it will use its TANF block grants, there is no national definition of what welfare is for the purpose of the 5-year lifetime limitation.
Welfare reform has time limits on benefits, and various restrictions on eligibility.
Many large welfare systems appear to be failing. Inc. All Rights Reserved.