SF184

Senate File No. 184 is a legislative proposal in Minnesota calling for an evaluation into the feasibility of running a demonstration project that would allow individuals to continue receiving benefits from certain public programs for a period of time, even after they no longer qualify due to increased income from employment. The goal of this project is to address the sudden loss of benefits—often referred to as "benefit cliffs"—that can discourage individuals from seeking higher-paying jobs or working more hours for fear of losing essential support.

The bill assigns the commissioners of human services and children, youth, and families to prepare a detailed report. This report, due by January 15, 2026, will be submitted to key legislative committees. It will explore which health care, income assistance, and social service programs could be involved in the demonstration, how long and up to what income level benefits might continue after a person's financial situation improves, and the characteristics of the counties that could participate.

Additionally, the commissioners are tasked with suggesting potential adjustments to program benefits, assessing necessary legal changes or federal permissions, and delineating how the project would be evaluated for effectiveness while ensuring it does not increase overall budget expenditures.