Dianne Feinstein: “I had truly hoped that I could support legislation that could deliver meaningful and historic reform of our Nation's…”

“I had truly hoped that I could support legislation that could deliver meaningful and historic reform of our Nation's welfare system, but this bill forces California to bear far more than our fair share of the burden. Last year I voted for the Senate bill and against the conference bill because California's concerns were not met. This year, I would hope that some of these items could be fixed in conference committee, so that we are able to vote for a bill at the end of this process. Nearly one-third of the net reductions contained in this bill fall on just one State: California. California is being asked to shoulder $17 billion in cuts--one-third of the entire savings. The question is, what is the State able and willing to provide to fill in the gap? An examination of Governor Wilson's budget indicates that dollars budgeted for food stamps, AFDC, and benefits for legal immigrants drop from an estimated $1.9 billion in the current fiscal year to just over $1.5 billion in 1997--therefore, counties cannot expect a large bailout from the State. Consequently, for those who deserve special help, whether they be aged, blind, developmentally disabled or mentally ill, an increased burden will most certainly fall on the counties. no safety net for children S. 1795 ends the Federal guarantee of cash assistance for poor children and families, and provides no safety net for children whose parents reached the 5-year time limit on benefits.”