On the recordSeptember 26, 2023
Madam Chair, I rise in extremely strong opposition to this amendment. This amendment would take away all State waivers for able-bodied adults without dependents, the so-called ABAWDs. If employment is over 10 percent or there are not sufficient jobs for people in the State, again, who are we to take that State's judgment away? If you think we will never experience these conditions again, think again. Neither you nor I can foresee the future. If these conditions do occur, what are the chances that these folks will find jobs? I cannot and will not support this amendment, nor will any of my Democratic colleagues. If it is included in a final conference report, I doubt my Democratic colleagues will provide the necessary votes for final passage, nor will President Biden sign it into law. It is a bad amendment. Let's vote it down. Madam Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.
