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Minutes for SB440 - Committee on Public Health and Welfare
Short Title
Providing an additional option to fulfill work participation requirements under the cash assistance program.
Minutes Content for Mon, Feb 24, 2020
Chairman Suellentrop opened the hearing on SB440.
Scott Abbott, Staff Revisor, gave an overview of SB440.
Melissa Rooker testified as a proponent stating that SB440 brings an innovative approach to the issue of lack of infant care slots, and the high cost of the slots that do exist for this age group. It brings the idea of primary prevention to the policy table. Allowing new parents to remain home with their baby for a longer period of time is a healthy choice. Adding parent education programs during that time helps strengthen families and will ensure our children are given their best possible start in life. (Attachment 18)
Jaryl Perkins gave proponent testimony. He stated that SB440 would allow single parents of infants to count their participation in home visitation programs toward TANF work requirements. SB440 would help new single parents build a solid foundation for themselves and their children by maintaining TANF income supports and by learning parenting skills in their homes through an evidence-based model. (Attachment 19)
David Jordan spoke as a proponent of SB440. He supports early childhood initiatives because research shows investing early creates not only the best health outcomes, but also the greatest return on investment. SB440 would make it easier for parents to participate in critical home-visiting programs, which would improve the parenting skills and the odds of their kids having a successful life. (Attachment 20)
They took questions from committee members.
Written only, proponent testimony was submitted by:
John Wilson, President, Kansas Action for Children (Attachment 21)
Brenda Bandy, Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition Inc. (Attachment 22)
Chairman Suellentrop closed the hearing on SB440.
Chairman Suellentrop spoke to the committee about SB252 (Attachment 23) and adjourned the meeting at 10:30 a.m.
