Texas Statewide Three-Part Learning Series: Addressing the Benefits Cliff in Texas | Policy Momentum and Opportunities for Philanthropy – Session Three

As Texas prepares for the upcoming legislative session, efforts to address the “benefits cliff” are gaining attention from policymakers, employers, nonprofits, and advocates working to strengthen economic mobility. While public benefits are designed to support families, benefits cliffs undermine the investments Texas makes in career pathways, workforce development, and a robust building of a strong workforce. We encourage people to pursue education, training, and better-paying jobs, but when increased earnings trigger the loss of essential supports faster than families can absorb, those investments do not achieve their full potential. Addressing benefits cliffs helps ensure that workforce investments translate into lasting economic mobility and a stronger labor force.

This webinar will provide a practical overview of the benefits cliff landscape in Texas, highlight emerging policy and pilot opportunities, and explore how other states are approaching similar challenges. For those who would benefit from a foundational introduction, we’ll share a brief “Benefits Cliffs 101” resource in advance.

Hosted by AFN in partnership with RAISE Texas and United Ways of Texas, this webinar is designed for philanthropy professionals and others interested in advancing economic mobility. Speakers will share the latest developments from the Texas policy landscape, lessons from promising state and local initiatives, and opportunities for grantmakers and cross-sector partners to support systems-level solutions. Whether you fund workforce development, early childhood, financial stability, health, housing, or related issues, you’ll leave with a stronger understanding of why benefits cliffs matter, what’s on the horizon in Texas, and how philanthropy can help ensure work truly leads to economic opportunity.