Political Quotes

“how much longer will we have to wait for real welfare reform? Given the fact that it appears disagreements on welfare reform are relatively limited between Republicans, Democrats, and the administration, the time is ripe to make major improvements in our welfare system. In this regard, 162 Republicans have sponsored a welfare reform bill which includes provisions I think we all can agree on to a great degree. Strong paternity establishment, expansion of statutory flexibility of States for means-tested programs, a strong mandatory work program, time-limited benefits, though child support enforcement, and controlling welfare costs. With these provisions that we are all generally aligned on, combined with the earned income tax credit, we have an excellent chance to provide welfare recipients with expanded hope, responsibility, and opportunity to escape the welfare trap. Our Republican bill includes these incentives, and more, and does so at a $20 billion savings to the taxpayers over 5 years. But what is the hold-up if we are speaking the same language on welfare reform? We need to move forward now, and that is why I have introduced a bill that would create an ad hoc welfare reform committee, of limited duration and at no extra cost, that would facilitate an expedited welfare reform bill that welfare recipients need and taxpayers deserve.”