Social Services
Municipal Water Leaders Want More Federal Help for Poor Customers
They say they’re facing an untenable situation as low-income households are pressured by higher rates and systems need major upgrades. One official warns that a recent drinking water failure in Mississippi “is a harbinger of a wider national problem.”
New York City Agencies to Involuntarily Admit More Severely Mentally Ill People for Evaluations
Mayor Eric Adams clarified that people do not have to be a danger to themselves or others to receive help.
How the Supreme Court Could End Up Blocking a Key Path to Sue States
The court will hear arguments next month in an Indiana case that could decide whether people can take legal action against states and localities if they believe their rights are violated under safety net programs, like Medicaid. Advocates for the elderly, poor and people with disabilities say the stakes are enormous.
Strategies for Solving Homelessness Across the US
A look at how communities are making progress helping people who are homeless.
From Book Stacks to Psychosis and Food Stamps, Librarians Confront a New Workplace
As communities try to meet demand for social-net services, some librarians are finding their duties now extend beyond books and periodicals.
States Investing in SNAP Fraud Detection and Prevention
Several states won U.S. Department of Agriculture grants for services and programs to help stop fraud in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
State Turns to Data Tools to Root Out Social Services Fraud
Data modeling, analytics and visualizations are helping the Texas HHS inspector general detect and prevent fraud, waste and abuse within state programs.
New York to Battle Senior Loneliness With Robot Companions
The state’s Office of Aging plans to distribute voice-activated companions to prompt connections and wellness checks.
A City Seeks to Undo a Legacy of Trauma
A Baltimore law requires agencies that interact with children and families to receive training in trauma-informed care. It's changing how the city engages with residents, with a greater emphasis on healing rather than hardline policies.
How States Can Improve the Customer Experience for Families Seeking Safety Net Supports
COMMENTARY | By making changes to technology systems and prioritizing the customer’s point of view, states can provide faster and more efficient access to benefits and ensure families receive the supports they need.
Democratic Governors Hold Out Hope for Build Back Better Legislation
The state leaders highlighted early childhood care and housing programs as especially important parts of the massive budget bill. But their GOP counterparts are wary of more federal spending.
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