FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky lawmakers have put together a task force to address an issue impacting some Kentuckians who are receiving public benefits. 

It’s called a “benefits cliff” — when a small increase in what someone earns leads to a drop in benefits. 

What You Need To Know

  • Kentucky lawmakers held the first meeting of the Benefits Cliff Task Force Wednesday

  • A “benefits cliff” occurs when a small increase in what someone earns leads to a drop in benefits

  • Experts say exceeding the income limit threshold by as little as $1 can result in a total loss of SNAP benefits

  • The next meeting is set for August 24 

The task force held its first meeting Wednesday. Rep. Jonathan Dixon (R, Corydon) co-chairs the group.

"The goal for us with this task force is to gather as much information as we can as possible on the benefits cliff, how that affects our citizens and individuals that are on public assistance," he said. "That’s the overall purpose of this task force is to gather that information, give the presenters and the people around the state that have the data and have the knowledge the opportunity to come and present to us and we can have all the information that we need to make good, educated decisions moving forward."

Benefits cliffs mean families don’t have the resources to meet basic needs and employers are hindered in hiring and promoting employees, according to The National Conference of State Legislatures. 

Cameron Rifkin, a policy associate with NCSL, told lawmakers that exceeding the income limit threshold by as little as $1 can result in a total loss of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

The Kentucky Center for Statistics listed three major contributors to cliff effects: the loss of SNAP benefits, an increase in child care expenses or an increase in health care expenses. 

They talked to lawmakers about an online tool for families to look at their own financial situation. 

"In a five-person household, you need at least $66,000 in order to be self-sustaining in one county in the state of Kentucky," said Kris Stevens, a senior data scientist with the center. 

Rep. Pamela Stevenson (D, Louisville), a member of the task force, said lawmakers have the opportunity to improve the qualify of life for Kentuckians.

"We’re trying to find a balance between those people who are really looking for a job, they want to be self-sustained, they want to fulfill their purpose in the world and they need a bridge so they don’t lose their benefits," she said.

The next meeting is set for Aug. 24.