When our basic needs, such as food, water, shelter and health care, are consistently and reliably met, we are in a better position to gain an economic foothold and pursue upward economic mobility through employment, education and entrepreneurship. Conversely, when these needs are routinely unmet, economic opportunities become increasingly limited and self-sufficiency becomes harder to obtain.
Legislatures have a variety of tools available to address economic security and mobility. For example, states can support education and career pathway programs, implement federally funded public assistance programs in ways that build self-sufficiency and create tax credits to help low- and moderate-income families meet their basic needs. Promoting home ownership and other asset-building programs are also effective means to build economic mobility.
This collection of informational resources is designed to help state lawmakers understand the policy opportunities available to increase economic security and mobility for individuals and families.