June 11, 2009. Part I – The Basics – and Part II – New York’s Experience to Date Using the Regular Contingency Fund – are the first two of a series of briefs that looks into the rules governing the new Emergency Contingency Fund (ECF), reviews New York’s experience with the regular Contingency Fund, and explores the situations under which New York may qualify for ECF funds.

Also see Part III (August 11, 2009) – How New York Could Use the TANF Emergency Contingency Fund – accompanied by a data table, timeline, and list of sources.

Supporting information: Data tables:

  1. In the 2009-2010 state budget, New York used its FFY 2009 regular Contingency Fund award to pay for over $400 million in TANF-related programs.
  2. New York’s TANF/MOE caseload was lower in each quarter of FFY 2008 than in FFY 2007 – so 2008 would serve as New York’s base year for determining its Emergency Contingency Fund award for basic assistance.
  3. If New York spends more to support needy families in 2009 and 2010, 80 percent of the increased spending in three categories will qualify for an Emergency Contingency Fund award.
  4. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Expenditure Data for New York – Detail for 2007 and 2008.
  5. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Expenditure Data for New York – Detail for 2009.