Protect TANF Resources for Families

Summary#

This bill would change part A of title IV of the Social Security Act to require that federal TANF block grant funds be used only to supplement (add to) funds that states and localities already would provide, and not to replace (supplant) those funds. It adds a requirement that the chief executive officer of each state must certify the state will not use TANF federal funds to supplant state or other non‑federal funds for programs under this part. That change would take effect October 1, 2025. The bill also extends the authorization for TANF activities (with certain exceptions) through September 30, 2026, and includes an appropriation clause that allows the Treasury to provide "such sums as may be necessary" to continue the program in the same manner as fiscal year 2023.

What it means for you#

• State and local agencies that run TANF programs will need a certification from the state chief executive that TANF funds will not replace state or other non‑federal spending.
• The bill does not itself change benefit levels, eligibility rules, or specific services in the TANF program in the text provided.
• The certification requirement begins October 1, 2025, and the program authority is continued through September 30, 2026.
• No publicly available information on how enforcement, oversight, or penalties would be carried out.

Expenses#

The bill says the Treasury may provide "such sums as may be necessary" to continue TANF activities through September 30, 2026. No publicly available information on total cost estimates or specific budget figures is included in the text provided.

Proponents' View#

The bill's stated purpose is to ensure federal TANF funds supplement and do not supplant state and local spending, described as protecting TANF resources for families.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.