Gary Franks: “this welfare reform conference bill brings us one step closer to fixing a welfare system that has been broken and in…”

“this welfare reform conference bill brings us one step closer to fixing a welfare system that has been broken and in need of major repairs. We have had a welfare system that has caused generations of American citizens to live in poverty and become consumed by a condition of hopelessness and despair. We have had a welfare system that has created dependency upon a monthly stipend instead of employment as a viable solution to overcome poverty. I strongly believe in the American dream where each individual is given the opportunity to work, provide for their family, and participate in our society. The current welfare system has taken that dream away from too many Americans. The conference committee bill represents the change that will place the welfare program back into the hands of the States so that States can implement programs that best fit the needs of their welfare constituents. The bill will reinforce the American principle in which parents are responsible for the well-being of their children. Welfare recipients will be required to identify the absent father, and all able-bodied parents will be expected to work to provide for the needs of their children. The bill strengthens child support enforcement so that absent fathers will be located and required to pay child support. The conference committee bill encourages States to implement the debit card for disbursement of welfare funds and food stamps.”