Overview Process

Since its creation in 1997, the Washington WorkFirst program has experienced a 40 percent reduction in its caseload. More than 153,000 people have left and never returned. In addition, welfare recipiency is its lowest in 30 years. The program, however, is facing a significant budget shortfall estimated at $30 to $50 million per year.

Because the program is facing a budget deficit due to stagnant block grant funding from the federal government, it is time to reexamine the goals and strategies of the program to ensure its continued success and financial sustainability. It is critical the budget be balanced as quickly as possible to ensure the delivery of high quality services to low-income parents.

To accomplish that, Governor Gregoire and the WorkFirst SubCabinet have formed a workgroup, comprised of individuals both inside and outside state government, to take a thorough look at the program. The workgroup will consider the underlying goals of welfare reform, and evaluate strategies and specific program components that will meet those goals while keeping WorkFirst financially sustainable into the future. The workgroup members will offer perspectives from the academic world, employers, social services, local government, as well as state agency WorkFirst leadership.

The summer of 2005, the workgroup will gather information and input that will help them in their deliberations. After review by the WorkFirst SubCabinet, final recommendations or options will be sent to Governor Gregoire for her consideration in the fall.