The New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA) has announced that starting April 28, recipients of the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance program must provide proof of job search, participation in city-funded job training programs, or a medical certificate stating they are unable to work due to a disability in order to continue receiving benefits. This is a return to the pre-pandemic rules, which were temporarily relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The city's cash assistance policy is a vital lifeline for low-income families, with approximately 325,000 people relying on it before the pandemic. The number of recipients has increased to nearly 600,000 since 2022, making it a critical issue for the city. The HRA's decision is aimed at ensuring that resources are allocated more effectively and encouraging able-bodied individuals to re-enter the workforce.