Request for Proposals: Research Assistant

The PIF Coalition will conduct an assessment of how states are implementing Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) changes as a result of One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), also known as HR 1. While some immigrant groups are losing eligibility altogether, others, like asylees, refugees, and other humanitarian groups, will become eligible, with no waiting period, when they gain lawful permanent resident status. PIF is initiating a project with the purpose to document the impact of state implementation of HR 1, including state legislative and administrative changes on immigrant families accessing services. In practice, these changes should primarily impact refugees, asylees, and certain victims of trafficking. These changes are important to document and track in order to take action to repair the harm when opportunities arise at the federal and state policy levels in the future.

GOALS AND REQUIREMENTS

This project will consist of a Task Force, composed of PIF member organizations that will help guide the research aspects of this project. We are seeking a Research Assistant for a part time contracted position to support the development and design of the research project, as well as data collection and analysis, and drafting of the findings. The scope of the research project will include:

• A 50-state policy scan of implementation of immigrant eligibility restrictions in SNAP and Medicaid.
• A comprehensive review of 25 key states, including development and dissemination of a survey for state advocates.
• Qualitative follow up to gain insights from practitioners and families in four states that result in case studies.
• Partnering with PIF and local organizations to conduct listening sessions in key communities.

WORKING RELATIONSHIP

We seek a collaborative partner who will work with PIF staff and consultants to deliver on the goals and requirements above. In particular, we seek thought partnership on key research elements including:

• Metrics to consider and inform the state scan and comprehensive review.
• Development of the survey instrument and other research tools.
• Development of the questionnaire for the listening sessions.
• Dimensions of equity to consider and include throughout.

PIF staff will lead the overall design and project management of the initiative. Other key team members, including other policy and legal experts in Medicaid and SNAP policy, will be available at specific points along the project timeline to discuss options, provide input on drafts, and make decisions.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience and knowledge of state SNAP and Medicaid programs
• Experience with policy research and tracking policy changes
• Understanding of public benefits policy and program implementation and the layers of federal and state laws, regulations, guidance, policy manuals, and other relevant policy documents
• Understanding of the unique barriers immigrants and immigrant families face in accessing public benefit programs

BUDGET, TIMELINE, AND SUBMISSIONS

We have a budget of $60,000 for a research assistant. We anticipate the time needed will be 15-20 hours a week for 40 weeks. In addition, travel to four states for the listening sessions will also be required and expenses will be reimbursed by PIF.

Interested parties should submit a resume, cover letter, and a writing sample a in a single-file PDF. The writing sample can be a reflection of previous work that demonstrates skills associated with research or policy analysis.

Proposals will be reviewed on a rolling basis with a priority deadline of October 16th, 2026. We will be happy to answer questions about the project anytime before that deadline. We are looking to select a contractor for this project and begin work as soon as possible.