Our goal should be to empower Iowans to advance their careers, not create artificial barriers that disincentivize personal achievement.
Businesses across Iowa face a workforce shortage. House File 2424, a bill addressing the child care welfare cliff, was approved by a 99-0 vote last week in the Iowa House and is awaiting action in the Iowa Senate. This legislation is one solution to Iowa’s workforce problem.
In his weekly email, Rep. Chris Hagenow said, "The biggest piece of legislation that we are considering this year moves toward removing the ceiling on Iowans’ ability to be successful by addressing the “cliff effect” that many families face. The child care cliff effect occurs when an individual is stuck in welfare dependency and is limited in their ability to take a raise or promotion at work for fear of losing benefits."
"Our goal should be to empower Iowans to advance their careers, not create artificial barriers that disincentivize personal achievement." - Rep. Chris Hagenow
The bill would reduce the impact of the cliff and create an off-ramp, so benefits aren’t removed all at once. Workers can advance in their careers while gradually easing their way off government programs and toward self-sufficiency.