What makes JET different from other welfare reform efforts?
JET is the compilation of best efforts from a decade of welfare reform. JET emphasizes cooperation and coordination between various state and local service providers. Michigan welfare reform efforts address education, substance abuse, job training and disabilities in a front-end assessment. JET also incorporates successful employee retention strategies used by Michigan businesses in providing on-going support after the cash assistance recipient gets a job. And JET uses sanctions to encourage people stay to with the program and follow the plan they've developed to reach self-sufficiency.

How can we be sure JET is working?
Already we are seeing encouraging progress from the phased roll-out of JET. Regular tracking of case loads, work participation and educational investments show positive results. There has been a decline in the number of FIP cases in JET pilot sites. Beginning in October 2007, a monthly report will be available to identify trends and clients' progress in the program.

Are the sanctions too stringent?
A client who does not participate in any part of the plan will be offered a "triage" meeting with all the service providers to explain their non-participation and seek solutions to get back on the plan. If the client cannot offer legitimate reasons, the client may face sanctions of up to twelve months of ineligibility for cash assistance.

Why is JET a smart move for Michigan?
JET is an investment in the long-term growth and prosperity of our workforce and our economy. The program prepares clients for the workforce by connecting them with workforce readiness supports including education and training that can lead to long-term career placements and advancements to become self-sufficient. JET will reduce the number of people who rely on cash assistance and remove the barriers that return families to the cycle of poverty. For Michigan's employers, JET provides prepared workers ready to take and retain jobs to help businesses avoid high turnover and become more productive. This approach provides long-term economic growth for individuals, families, businesses and Michigan's evolving economy.

How can we justify the cost of this new program when the state is facing such a budget crisis?
JET is revenue neutral and is projecting potential savings as more people become self-sufficient and no longer need welfare supports. Investing in Michigan's most vulnerable families to provide assistance that leads to long-term self-sufficiency helps the rest of Michigan's business climate and overall economy grow and flourish. While there are some upfront costs associated with implementing JET, the program is expected to result in long-term savings in reduced welfare assistance.