Plus, research on the US safety net, and Medicaid work requirements.
Is there substantial oversight on federal spending? Over the past several decades, public concern about inadequate oversight over the federal budget and government spending has morphed into deep skepticism. In a new explainer, Ben Harris and Liam Marshall outline Congress's role in federal spending decisions, oversight of Social Security and Medicare, and the responsibilities of federal agencies. | Research on the safety net | The US safety net. Since 1970, the U.S. safety net has grown stronger, reducing poverty, increasing health care coverage, and improving children's well-being. Robert Greenstein highlights the need for policymakers to address major gaps, including inadequate unemployment insurance, limited child tax credit availability, and shortages in affordable housing and childcare. Medicaid work requirements. As part of upcoming reconciliation legislation, congressional Republicans are considering a Medicaid work requirement, where proposals mandate enrollees to work or engage in approved activities for a certain number of hours per month to remain eligible, with some exemptions. To forecast the long-run enrollment effects of similar policies, Matthew Fielder examines a work requirement implemented by the state of Arkansas. | About Brookings The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C. Our mission is to conduct in-depth, nonpartisan research to improve policy and governance at local, national, and global levels. If you were forwarded this email, sign up for the Brookings Brief to stay updated on our latest work. | The conclusions and recommendations of any Brookings publication are solely those of its author(s), and do not reflect the views of the Institution, its management, or its other scholars. | |