Carrot vs Stick: The Social Safety Net, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and Work Requirements

The video discusses the goals of poverty relief programs, focusing on work requirements and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). It highlights the conflict between alleviating suffering and promoting self-sufficiency. The video presents statistics on poverty and employment, arguing that work requirements can reduce poverty but also acknowledging challenges such as childcare and job availability. The EITC is introduced as a successful work incentive, providing cash subsidies to low-income workers, and is contrasted with work requirements.

What is one of the main conflicts in poverty relief programs?

• Supporting children versus the elderly

• Focusing on urban versus rural areas

• Providing healthcare versus education

• Balancing immediate aid with long-term self-sufficiency

Why do some policymakers support work requirements in Medicaid?

• To limit access to education

• To reduce the number of healthcare providers

• To motivate people to find employment

• To increase healthcare costs

What is a key argument against work requirements?

• They are only applicable to young adults

• They can be difficult to fulfill due to lack of job opportunities

• They do not provide enough financial support

• They are too easy to meet

How does the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) differ from work requirements?

• EITC is a penalty for not working

• EITC provides cash incentives for working

• EITC is only available to retirees

• EITC requires full-time employment

What is the primary benefit of the EITC?

• It guarantees employment

• It reduces poverty by supplementing income

• It offers educational grants

• It provides free healthcare

Which organization administers the EITC?

• Non-profit organizations

• Local governments

• The IRS

• State agencies

What is a common conservative alternative to raising the minimum wage?

• Reducing healthcare benefits

• Increasing the EITC

• Providing free education

• Eliminating work requirements