A recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlights the lack of comprehensive data on the performance and participant outcomes of public assistance spending, particularly within the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. The GAO recommends implementing standardized performance measures and enhanced reporting to improve accountability and ensure resources effectively support families. In response, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith and Work and Welfare Subcommittee Chairman Darin LaHood emphasized the need for reforms to enhance accountability and efficiency. | |
Executive Order Enhances Eligibility Verification for Individuals Receiving Public Benefits
The executive order titled "Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders" directs federal agencies to identify and eliminate any taxpayer-funded benefits provided to non-eligible non-citizens. The order emphasizes enhancing eligibility verification systems to ensure that only eligible individuals receive public benefits. It states that agencies shall refer any improper receipt or use of federal benefits to the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security.
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Andrew Gradison Named Acting Assistant Secretary of ACF
This week, Andrew Gradison is now the Acting Assistant Secretary of the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) until a permanent leader is appointed and confirmed by the Senate. Acting Assistant Secretary Gradison previously served as a professional staff member on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP).
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Moving Human Services Upstream | |
Reaching Those in Need: Estimates of State SNAP Participation Rates in 2022
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently released a report on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation rates for 2022. The report shares that an estimated 88% of eligible individuals received benefits, marking a significant milestone in the program's history. However, participation rates varied widely across states, with 19 states and the District of Columbia exceeding the national average, while another 19 states fell below it.
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Strengthening the Human Services Sector | |
Ensuring Transparency and Accountability in Federal Spending
A new executive order titled “Implementing the President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ Cost Efficiency Initiative” focuses on transforming the management of federal spending on contracts, grants, and loans to ensure transparency and accountability. Each agency is required to develop a centralized technological system to record every payment issued, along with a brief justification for each payment. To further enhance transparency, and to the extent permitted by law, these payment justifications will be posted publicly.
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USDA Advanced Automation in SNAP Has Been Revised
In a letter to SNAP state agencies and regions, FNS has released guidance on the use of advanced automation technologies. This guidance includes the adoption of robotic process automation and artificial intelligence (AI) to help state agencies manage workloads, address staffing challenges, and improve customer service. The memo also includes examples from states using advanced automated technologies, which FNS acknowledges as major changes.
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APHSA and its affinity groups have an amazing series of conferences planned for 2025. Review the event details below and submit your proposals by the deadlines to ensure your voice is heard. | |
APHSA National Human Services Summit 2025 - Call for Proposals
We are seeking proposals for the APHSA National Human Services Summit in Philadelphia, PA, June 1-4. Submissions should highlight innovative policy, practice, and system approaches; elevate the important work of the human services sector; and showcase leadership strategies that foster a sense of resilience, workforce well-being, and productive collaboration.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: February 28, 2025 March 4 by midnight ET
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Call for Human Services Research Poster Showcase Proposals!
Connected to the APHSA National Human Services Summit, we are launching a Research Poster Showcase designed to connect researchers who study what works—and why—with human services leaders across the country!
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: March 15, 2025
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ISM Education Conference & Expo 2025 - Call for Proposals
We are also seeking proposals for the IT Solutions Management for Human Services (ISM) Education Conference & Expo in Reno, NV, September 14-17. Submissions should highlight tech-enabled innovation; people-powered design; data-driven program delivery; cross-systems alignment; and evidence-based policy.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: February 28, 2025 March 4 by midnight ET
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PHSA Education Conference 2025 - Call for Proposals
NEW! Call for proposals for the Public Human Services Attorneys (PHSA) Education Conference, being held in Reno, NV, October 19-22, are now open. We are seeking proposals that highlight innovative, evidence-based, best or promising practices. Submissions should reflect on the current landscape of agencies and the communities they serve.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: March 12, 2025
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Call for Human Services Research Poster Showcase Proposals!
APHSA is supporting Coleridge Initiative’s 5th Annual National Convening in Arlington, VA. The event is designed to showcase the transformative potential of leveraging administrative data through state, federal, and private collaborations. Attendees will explore data-driven solutions and the impact of strategic partnerships in shaping public policy. Early bird pricing ends February 10 and government employees can attend for free.
March 26–28
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APHSA Career Center - Post Your Open Positions Today
APHSA serves as a clearinghouse for job opportunities throughout the Human Services sector. Employers reach a wide audience of candidates searching for careers and job seekers will find a number of opportunities throughout the country.
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