Safety net programs address persistent problems, such as poverty, and protect workers and families during downturns, making it easier to meet basic food, housing and health needs. Our posts on this subject include research on Medicare and Medicaid; social security; the short- and long-term benefits of poverty relief; the increasing focus on employment in combating poverty; and how the social safety net has responded to the COVID-19 crisis.
November 9, 2018
The idea of universal basic income, a fixed income for every adult, has been garnering interest as a response to wage stagnation and automation. But is the idea feasible?
September 24, 2018
Programs provide for families with children while improving their chances of raising the children’s educational attainment. Are they effective in the long-term?
June 12, 2018
Because of population aging, Social Security is projected to exhaust its ability to fund full retirement benefits in 2034; after that time, incoming revenues will only be sufficient to pay 77 % of scheduled retirement benefits.
April 3, 2018
Proposed new rules for immigration would make use of non-cash benefits count negatively for legal permanent residence, potentially impacting many U.S. children.
January 22, 2018
CHIP is a key provider of health insurance for low-income children, contributing to near-universal health insurance coverage for children in the U.S.
January 7, 2018
U.S. policy has emphasized employment at the center of anti-poverty programs. However, many poor adults face barriers to work or are in poverty despite working.
November 12, 2017
Children who had access to nutrition support from food stamps are less likely to suffer from obesity, high-blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease as adults.
July 25, 2017
Welfare programs are a small part of the federal budget. Disability Insurance might be a better target to reduce government spending and increase employment.
July 2, 2017
The House and Senate plans to repeal and replace Obamacare would make dramatic cuts to Medicaid. What does research say about the costs and benefits of Medicaid?