We need a completely different approach to fighting poverty—one that focuses on opportunity, self-sufficiency, and self-determination—rather than simply throwing more money at the problem
Social Mobility
A core promise of America is the ability of people to rise up from humble beginnings. The challenges faced by lower- and middle-income Americans today are multidisciplinary in nature, and require our renewed focus. Job and wage growth are essential; in particular, Americans need access to more blue-collar work and other jobs that don’t require a college degree. Our employment and welfare policies should encourage work, family formation, and income security. Paid family leave can help strengthen families at their times of need.
All Social Mobility
Washington needs to give Americans the tools or opportunities to escape poverty in the long run
Congress should protect federal benefits to foster children that have been raided by state agencies
The state should take steps to increase opportunity for all struggling Californians
Alleviating the “benefit cliff” can provide a better incentive for individuals to join and stay in the workforce
The rise in poverty rates reflects the expiration of several benefits provided during the pandemic and the continuing failure to pull Americans out of poverty
This could affect who receives government benefits and how much the government spends on anti-poverty programs
It is a public policy debate that we should continue to watch closely