State lawmakers have approved legislation to create a “One Door” system where Louisianians can access the most benefits. Representative Kim Carver says the Louisiana Workforce Commission (to be renamed Louisiana Works) would become the main public-facing agency for benefit access, the Department of Health would manage SNAP processing, and DCFS would shift to focus on child welfare.
“They are really able to focus on the very difficult and complex core mission that they have which is child protection and child safety in our child welfare system.”
Two bills, HB 617 and HB 624, backed by Gov. Jeff Landry and passing without opposition in the House and Senate, would reassign responsibilities and transfer $384 million and 1,500 jobs to support the change. Carver says it’s an effort to streamline the process for families.
“How can we put it behind one door where a citizen can go to one place and receive the benefits they need in order to support their families and find the dignity of work?”
Carver says the overhaul will improve service delivery, reduce duplication, and help more residents re-enter the workforce.
“Before, the way we delivered social services now, it’s spread out among multiple departments. A person may have to visit three or four different agencies in order to apply and receive the benefits that they need.”
Comments