Republicans are weaponizing the debt ceiling to force “work requirements” for Medicaid and assistance programs like SNAP and TANF. Below, EPI offers insights on the risk of including “work requirements” in a deal to raise the debt ceiling.

Read the full Twitter thread here.

It turns out “work requirements” don’t work. How do we know? Because the same corporate interests pushing so-called “work requirements” right now in Congress have been pushing the same idea in states for years. @EARNetwork @AACF https://t.co/cm2GEryDiA

— Economic Policy Institute (@EconomicPolicy) May 22, 2023

Most adult Medicaid enrollees who can work are already working, except for those out of the workforce due to school enrollment, a disability, or caregiving responsibilities. @EveryTxn https://t.co/YvapaoKdI4

— Economic Policy Institute (@EconomicPolicy) May 22, 2023

“Work requirements” disadvantage those who are working hardest at low-wage jobs with unpredictable schedules. Those in temp or part-time jobs may struggle to meet arbitrary hours worked quotas each month, facing constant risk of losing benefits. @ncjustice https://t.co/jqr5iEwrCU

— Economic Policy Institute (@EconomicPolicy) May 22, 2023

Who does benefit from “work requirement” policies? Multimillion dollar corporate temp agencies and staffing services who profit off government contracts to place Medicaid or SNAP recipients in low-wage, short-term jobs that trap families in poverty. https://t.co/C1ynWAAGDS

— Economic Policy Institute (@EconomicPolicy) May 22, 2023

Policymakers must reject dangerous TANF proposals that encourage states to restrict benefits for families with the greatest need. https://t.co/p5GElRszyV

— Economic Policy Institute (@EconomicPolicy) May 22, 2023