STATEHOUSE (May 21, 2021) – A bill breaking down barriers for young, low-income workers looking to obtain in-demand job skills is now law, according to State Reps. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) and Joanna King (R-Middlebury).
Currently, all money earned in a household is used to determine eligibility for Temporary Assistance For Needy Families benefits. TANF is a program that provides cash assistance and supportive services to families with children under age 18, helping them achieve economic self-sufficiency.
Miller said starting in July, House Enrolled Act 1009 will allow a Hoosier who is 24 years old or younger and resides in a home receiving TANF, to earn up to $15,000 and not impact their family's TANF eligibility.
"These Hoosiers are working to better their lives overall by learning new skills that can propel their career," Miller said. "No one should be discouraged from taking steps to support themselves and their loved ones. By removing this potential set back, I hope more young adults will take advantage of the many opportunities out there for them to grow in a job of their choice."
According to King, this will incentivize students from low-income families to pursue a college degree or workforce certificate, or participate in a pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship program. She said the law also increases the state's Earned Income Tax Credit to 10% at the start of 2022, which could put more than $11 million back into the hands of low-income working families each year.
"This tax credit can make a big difference for hardworking Hoosiers trying to make ends meet," King said. "By making these changes, low-income workers can move into better-paying positions, have more money in their pockets and shift away from government assistance altogether."
To learn more about this new law, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) represents House District 48, which includes portions of Elkhart County.
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State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49, which includes the eastern portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
