Minnesota Family Investment Program

The Minnesota Family Investment Program [MFIP], Minnesota's welfare reform program, began in January 1998. It helps families work their way out of poverty by expecting, supporting and rewarding work. MFIP, which replaced the Aid to Families with Dependent Children entitlement program combines cash assistance, food support, and employment services to eligible families with children.

In 1989, the Human Services Department obtained approval from the United States Congress to test MFIP in a five year field trial. Details, procedures and approval from the Minnesota Legislature delayed the start of field trials in seven counties until April 1994. Those seven counties included the metropolitan counties of Hennepin, Anoka and Dakota and the rural counties of Sherburne, Morrison, Mille Lacs and Todd. Ramsey County was added in July 1996. An outside firm, Manpower Demonstration Research Corporation of New York, evaluated MFIP's effectiveness and issued reports in 1995, 1997, and 2000. Those reports showed MFIP was effective in reaching its goals, and thus, on July 1, 1998, the pilot phase of the program ended and MFIP was established statewide.

Eligible families must be citizens or qualified noncitizens, have income and assets below limits set by the legislature, and include at least one minor child or pregnant woman and the child's parent or stepparents. Recipients are expected to meet hourly work requirements. The program provides supports to make work possible (including child care assistance) and imposes sanctions for noncompliance. It is funded by the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families [TANF] and state appropriations. The legislature sets benefits levels, which include cash and food assistance portions. With some exceptions, the program is provided for no more than 60 months.

From the description of Records, 1987-2002. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 313870967