Political Quotes

“The short answer to your question is yes, but I would like to give a longer answer, if I could, and give you my perspective of TANF. TANF is an acronym for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program, which was created almost 23 years ago to provide help to low- income families with children in order to promote work and to strengthen families. The creation of TANF sent a very clear message: People receiving help from the taxpayers should be expected to work, to prepare for work, or to take steps to become more self-reliant in exchange for having the taxpayers help you through difficult times in your life. TANF also sent another message, this one to our 50 States: In exchange for this funding, States must help people find work, prepare for jobs, or do other things that will help families get back on their feet. Besides Senator Daines' mentioning Montana, I presume that of the 49 States, many are not meeting the requirements of TANF. Obviously, it does not make much sense for us to have standards if we don't enforce those standards. There have been many proposals in recent years to improve the program, but, unfortunately, none have become law. That is why I am grateful to be here with Senator Daines, who effectively represents Montana. I know Senator Daines has been working on fixing problems with TANF and getting more people from welfare to work.…”