John Kerry: “I wanted to take just a few moments to talk about an amendment I have filed to extend the TANF emergency fund; that is…”

“I wanted to take just a few moments to talk about an amendment I have filed to extend the TANF emergency fund; that is, the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Fund. We have the opportunity to extend a proven program that provides genuinely desperately needed assistance to the Nation's poorest families and their children, the people who are the most vulnerable to an economic downturn. I am joined by Senator Specter in offering this amendment to extend the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Fund, the TANF as we call it, the emergency contingency fund, which was included in last year's economic stimulus legislation. I am glad to say this policy is supported by Majority Leader Reid, by Chairman Baucus, Senator Schumer, Senator Feinstein, Senator Specter, and others. It is my understanding this amendment is fully offset. Senate Finance Chairman Baucus and Majority Leader Reid have been integral to the development of this amendment.”