Political Quotes

“today this body will take a large step in making sweeping reform in our welfare system. By passing the welfare reform agreement, we move toward a system that emphasizes work and independence--a new system that represents real change and expanded opportunity. Although this bill is not perfect, it is our best chance in years to enact welfare reform that represents an opportunity to improve the current system. Sadly, our current system hurts the very people it is designed to protect by perpetuating a cycle of dependency. For those stuck on welfare, the system is not working. It is clear that we cannot and should not continue with the status quo. The status quo has fostered an entire culture of poverty. Our current system does little to help poor individuals move from welfare to work. It is clear the best antipoverty program is a job. To that end, this bill encourages work. It requires welfare recipients to work after 2 years and imposes a 5-year lifetime limit on welfare benefits. The bill turns Aid to Families with Dependent Children [AFDC] into a block grant program, allowing States to create their own unique welfare programs to best serve their residents. The bill maintains health care benefits for those currently receiving Medicaid because of their AFDC eligibility and provides $14 billion for child care so parents can go to work without worrying about the health and safety of their children.”