For many states, the existing investment in their IT infrastructure can be enhanced and augmented to accommodate the requirements of reform. Block grants and the consolidation of funding streams will encourage integration of information technology. In principle, however, reform should have an accelerating effect on technology implementation initiatives. It should also favor the development of intergovernmental solutions, a strategy that PTI very much espouses and supports through institutions such as the Intergovernmental Enterprise Panel. Jack Tweedie Information technology will play an increasingly prominent role as state and local agencies administering welfare programs must keep better track of welfare recipients and the services and assistance they receive.
Time limits pose the most immediate information technology challenge.
State and local welfare agencies must be able to track families' welfare receipt. As families move within a state and between states, agencies must be able to determine how long these families have received benefits. States must develop improved tracking within their states and, even more difficult, states must coordinate their tracking systems so that they can track recipients moving between states. Inc. All Rights Reserved.