Conclusion

Implementing jurisdictions—whether states, tribal governments, or cities and counties—operate from a wide range of capability, capacity, political will, and experience when it comes to implementing federal policies. Congress must meet these implementing bodies where they are when it comes to standing up a new program or modifying an existing one. This is especially true for programs that include a technical component, which these days is nearly every program. The ERAP experience provides clear lessons for future policy design and evaluation and points to new approaches for more equitable implementation, more efficient program administration, and better results for the American public.