March 1994

Cover

 
  • The Use of Consumer Credit Reports in Assessing Residential Utility Customers' Creditworthiness

    An increasing number of utilities are seeking regulatory permission to use consumer credit reports in assessing the creditworthiness of potential or existing customers. This article argues that credit reports based on nonutility transactions are not useful in determining a household's likelihood of paying utility bills.

    By Roger D. Colton

  • Making Section 3 Work: Employment Training and Job Opportunities for Low-Income People

    Section 3 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1968 targets low-income people for all employment, training, and contracting opportunities sponsored and funded by HUD. Few advocates are aware of Section 3, however, and few efforts have been made by HUD to enforce it. This column examines the revised 1992 version of Section 3 and how it can be used to provide economic opportunities for low-income people.

    By Brad Caftel and Arthur Haywood

  • Tax Benefits for the Working Poor

    Tax benefits available to the working poor have been underutilized. Legal services programs can greatly help their client population draw on this source of credit.

    By Michael A. O'Connor

  • Mental Disability Law in 1993

    This article discusses major developments in mental health law in 1993, including decisions advancing the civil rights of persons with mental disabilities, improved standards for mental health systems, the implications of the Americans with Disabilities Act for the treatment of persons with mental disabilities, and the new mental health program for children.

    By The Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law

  • Educational Goals 2000 for Students from Low-Income Families

    The Goals 2000: Educate America Act is expected to be passed into law in early 1994. This article examines four of the Act's six identified goals, which focus primarily on improving educational outcomes for young children and members of low-income families.

    By The Center for Law and Education