(a)
(1) The General Assembly finds that it is important that all families in this state be strong and economically self-sufficient and that it is in the public interest that:
(A) Eligible persons and families of lesser means be given time-limited cash assistance along with an opportunity to obtain and retain employment that is sufficient to sustain their families;
(B) As a part of this transition from welfare to work, it is in the public's interest that various supportive services and, in some cases, education and training be offered to these families to enable them to make this transition;
(C) Education and training are essential to long-term career development and self-sufficiency; and
(D) Employment improves the quality of life for parents and children by increasing family income and assets and by improving self-esteem.
(2) Therefore, it is in the public interest that our state provide time-limited cash assistance and supportive services to our most vulnerable citizens and their children.
(b)
(1) The General Assembly also finds that:
(A) Currently there are inefficiencies and duplication of effort on the part of the Division of Workforce Services and the Department of Human Services in the administration of the Transitional Employment Assistance Program; and
(B) A different division of responsibility for administration of the Transitional Employment Assistance Program by the division and the Department of Human Services may result in the more efficient and effective administration of the Transitional Employment Assistance Program.
(2) Therefore, it is in the public interest that the General Assembly authorize the division to:
(A) Receive the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant from the United States Department of Health and Human Services for the administration of all Temporary Assistance for Needy Families-funded programs in Arkansas;
(B) Expend the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant funds subject to the appropriations of the General Assembly;
(C) Provide all employment-related services for time-limited Transitional Employment Assistance Program clients;
(D) Contract with other state agencies or other providers to deliver services in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families-funded programs; and
(E) Prepare and submit any Temporary Assistance for Needy Families renewal plans that are required in § 402 of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 651 et seq.