Explore our new Benefit Cliff Resource Hub. It includes up-to-date research and an interactive dashboard tool that demonstrates policy changes states have implemented that can reduce the effects of benefit cliffs—policy barriers that can discourage families from increasing earnings due to the sudden and unexpected loss of public assistance. Covering key federal benefits programs, the dashboard showcases state-level policy changes, current practices (as of April 2025), and observed outcomes. Users can explore interactive visuals, detailed state profiles, and a curated library of resources from national partners to support policy innovation and family economic mobility. Explore the Benefit Cliff Resource Hub today! | | The Public Benefit Innovation Fund (PBIF) is awarding grants ranging from $500,000 to $2 million to advance AI solutions that directly enhance how state, local, and tribal administered public benefit programs—such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid—are delivered. A program of the Center for Civic Futures, PBIF is seeking bold ideas that reduce administrative burden, improve system performance, and enable people to access services through solutions ready to pilot and implement within the next 12 months. Applications are open now through August 15—apply today. | |
HHS Urges SSBG and CBG Recipients to Review DEI-Related Expenditures for Compliance
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued guidance to states and territories receiving Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) and Consolidated Block Grant (CBG) funds. It directs them to review all expenditures, Intended Use Plans (IUPs), and program activities that may not be aligned with federal law and HHS policy concerning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Noncompliance may result in enforcement action under applicable law and award conditions.
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ACF Seeks OMB Approval to Extend and Update Title IV-E Plan Requirements
The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) has submitted a request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for a three-year extension of the Title IV-E Plan for Foster Care and Adoption Assistance. This includes optional guardianship assistance, prevention services, and kinship navigator programs. The proposed updates reflect recent policy changes and include new requirements related to missing children under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2022, expanded flexibility for licensing relative and kin foster homes, and added tribal program flexibilities. ACF estimates a total annual burden of 373 hours across all responding agencies. Comments are due by August 8, 2025.
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Secretarial Directive on DEI-Related Funding
A secretarial directive from Acting Assistant Secretary of ACF, Andrew Gradison, has recently been issued to state and territory Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) administrators. The letter strongly encourages administrators to review budgets, budget justification narratives, program goals, and other materials to ensure that federal funds are not used for DEI initiatives. Expenditures found to be out of compliance with federal law may be subject to enforcement action.
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Registration for All Remaining 2025 Conferences Are Open
Economic Mobility & Well-Being (EMWB) Conference (August 24–27): Held in Minneapolis, MN, this conference focuses on advancing policies and practices that promote economic mobility and well-being, offering a platform for collaboration and innovation in human services.
IT Solutions Management for Human Services (ISM) Education Conference & Expo (September 14–17): Held in Reno, NV, this is the premier event for exploring the latest technology trends and innovations in human services IT, bringing together professionals to share solutions and strategies.
National Staff Development and Training Association (NSDTA) Education Conference (October 5–8): Held in Norfolk, VA, this conference supports workforce development professionals by providing training, tools, and peer learning opportunities to enhance staff development.
Public Human Services Attorneys (PHSA) Education Conference (October 19–22): Held in Reno, NV, we're hosting legal professionals within human services in a conference that covers legal trends, policy updates, and best practices in public sector law.
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WEBINAR: Doubling Down on Impact - Leading Through a Lens of Belonging
Join us for July's NSDTA Showcase Series! This dynamic leadership workshop will be focused on building a culture of belonging to boost team performance and impact. Participants will gain practical tools to create environments where everyone feels valued and motivated. Through honest conversations about power and privilege, you'll leave with actionable strategies to strengthen team cohesion and attract top talent.
July 30, 1:30-3:00 PM
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WEBINAR: Workforce First Aid - Elevating the Human Touch
Learn how to elevate the human touch in human services by attending this APHSA webinar. Participants will explore how to create psychological safety in the workplace and implement wellness strategies that promote a trauma-informed, healing-centered work environment. Walk away energized and equipped with a plan to build a culture of trust and support that boosts employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention.
Aug 19, 2:00-3:30 PM
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