Localizing welfare: evidence from tribal TANF and infant health outcomes

Abstract

There is limited empirical evidence on how the localization of transfer program administration affects infant health outcomes. Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) allows federally recognized tribes to assume administrative control of TANF programs from state governments. Using linked birth and infant death vital statistics data and leveraging the staggered adoption of Tribal TANF, I estimate that the establishment of Tribal TANF is associated with a considerable decline the incidence of low and very low birthweights among potentially treated AIAN populations. These effects are consistent with improved access to TANF and increased program participation under tribal administration. These findings highlight the importance of administrative structure in shaping the effectiveness of transfer programs for disadvantaged populations.