HR 2397
Targeting TANF to Families in Need Act
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Bill overview
This bill aims to change how Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds are distributed. It requires states receiving TANF grants to prioritize assistance for families with incomes below twice the current federal poverty guidelines. The bill establishes a specific income threshold for families eligible to receive these funds, ensuring resources are directed towards those most in need. The changes will go into effect on October 1, 2026.
Key provisions
- States receiving TANF grants must prioritize assistance for families with incomes below twice the federal poverty guidelines.
- The poverty guidelines used for determining eligibility are updated periodically in the Federal Register.
- Section 404 of the Social Security Act is amended to include this new requirement.
Who is affected
- Families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- State governments administering TANF programs
- Federal government (through TANF grant distribution)
Notable changes
- Introduces a specific income threshold for TANF eligibility based on poverty guidelines.
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119th CONGRESS — 1st Session
H. R. 2397
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
A BILL
To amend part A of title IV of the Social Security Act to target funds to families in need.
This Act may be cited as the Targeting TANF to Families in Need Act
.
Section 404 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 604) is amended by adding at the end the following:
A State to which a grant is made under section 403(a)(1) shall use the grant only to provide assistance or services to a family whose income is less than twice the poverty guidelines updated periodically in the Federal Register under section 673(2) of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C. 9902(2)).
The amendment made by subsection (a) shall take effect on October 1, 2026.