Means-Tested Programs

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO provided information on welfare reform proposals to simplify means-tested public assistance programs. GAO noted that: (1) welfare services should be easily accessible by all who seek assistance; (2) there is no integrated strategy to unify these programs to address the interrelated needs of individuals and families; (3) despite efforts to better coordinate federal programs, conflicting requirements make it difficult for program staff to coordinate activities and share resources; and (4) program integration could be facilitated by reducing or eliminating federal program barriers and reengineering the welfare delivery process.