Department of Labor

Meeting the Transportation Needs of TANF Recipients (Follow-Up Review)

Individuals who receive public assistance through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program are generally expected to become economically self-sufficient through placement in jobs or training programs expected to lead to employment. If a TANF recipient does not live within walking distance of work-related activities, and needs help getting to and from these activities, the local social services district is required to provide assistance to the recipient in the form of transportation services such as bus passes or reimbursement for work-related transportation expenses.

In our prior audit report 2000-S-63, we examined the Department of Labor’s allocation of TANF transportation funds to the local social services districts. We found that a number of improvements were needed, as the allocation process was not timely and was not based on need. In addition, in our reviews of case files at selected local districts, we found that the districts did not always document that they had identified the transportation needs of TANF recipients, or had met the needs that were identified. In our follow-up review, we found that progress had been made in implementing the recommendations contained in our prior report.

For a complete copy of Report 2003-F-11 click here.
For a copy of the 90-day response click here.