Eight kids a day in Washington state are losing TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) benefits as covid-era improvements to the programs time limit exemption policies end. Families are losing these benefits due to arbitrary 60-month cumulative time limits that eliminate their eligibility regardless of continued need. This is making it even harder for struggling families to meet their basic needs like food, shelter, transportation, hygiene, and clothes.

I grew up in King County, and my daughter was born here. We relied on assistance programs like TANF for survival for the first several years of her life. I have stood in the store choosing between laundry detergent and diapers, debated between buying my child clothes that fit or putting gas in the car to get to work. Limiting families’ flexible resources creates these impossible choices; making assistance more accessible eliminates them.

The TANF Hardship Time Limit Exemption (HB 1463) in the state Legislature makes it simple; families who qualify for TANF could continue to receive the benefits they need for as long as they meet the basic qualifying criteria. Everyone deserves the help they need to care for their children and themselves. When families have what they need to thrive, everyone in Washington wins.

Irene Muller

Essentials First

Bellevue