How Might State Responses to the Pandemic Affect the Safety Net?

This report examines how the pandemic and related economic downturn affected the need for safety net supports; actions states are taking to mitigate the immense hardship the pandemic has caused; implications for racial equity; and challenges, opportunities, and questions facing state leaders.

The authors find that although the timing and depth of the crisis has varied by state, with significant federal help, most states’ situations are now improving.