Title XX of the Social Security Act was established as a federal funding source for a broad range of social services provided by agencies of state governments. In Mississippi, the state agency designated to administer the Title XX program was the Department of Public Welfare (DPW).
When the program began in October 1975, state officials decided to provide the bulk of services through purchase of service (POS) contracts. These contracts were funded on a matching basis with DPW reimbursing the contractor for 75 percent of the contract cost. The report assessed both the positive and negative elements of purchasing services.
The report also thoroughly discussed DPW’s responsibilities in administering Title XX and found DPW’s current planning efforts inadequate. In addition, monitoring and auditing of contracts were major deficiencies in DPW’s administration of the Title XX program. DPW was estimated to be two years behind in POS contract auditing.
Finally, the report analyzed the role of the Legislature in Title XX. Issues for legislative consideration which were discussed were method of delivery of Title XX services, allocation of financial resources, and legislative oversight.
The appendixes of the report provided detailed information on the purchase of service contracts with Developmental Learning Associates and Learning Development Corporation.
For a paper copy of this report, contact PEER by telephone at 601-359-1226 or by e-mail at reports@peer.ms.gov.