In an effort to help Kentuckians make sound financial decisions, the Kentucky General Assembly passed legislation to offer more resources to support working families and create a task force to study Kentucky’s benefits.
House Bill 708, sponsored by Rep. Jonathan Dixon, requires the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to develop a proposal to make a “benefits cliff” calculator available to Kentuckians applying or reapplying for public assistance benefits and a job positing database to help those looking to pursue employment while not losing certain benefits or ensure a smooth transition. The legislation also forms a task force to examine the benefits cliff issues facing many in the state and create a plan to address those hurdles.
A benefits cliff is when an individual suddenly loses eligibility for a public assistance benefit due to a wage increase or because they took a job.
House Bill 708 passed on consent in the Senate Wednesday, giving it final passage. The bill now heads to the governor’s desk.