Tina Smith: “I join Senator Wyden in expressing deep pride in Oregon's TANF program and in thanking the chairman and ranking member…”

“I join Senator Wyden in expressing deep pride in Oregon's TANF program and in thanking the chairman and ranking member of the Finance Committee, on which I serve, for their cooperation. I share his assessment that this letter will enable Oregon to maintain its TANF program without penalty until the program is reauthorized. I also express my appreciation to Senators Grassley and Baucus for their efforts on TANF reauthorization. We have been working together for months to ensure that all TANF proposals, including those elements which have made Oregon's TANF program so successful, are carefully considered as we move toward TANF reauthorization. Oregon's TANF program, often called the Oregon Option, works because it recognizes local barriers to work and works with individuals to assess their needs and get them onto a path toward independence. For example, Oregon allows individuals with severe substance abuse problems to seek treatment. This helps people address the root of their problems--not just the symptoms. The Oregon Option has put people into real work situations--not just make work--and this has helped Oregon move people off the welfare rolls and into real, sustainable jobs. I believe the Senate can learn from the lessons of Oregon's program, and I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure that all state TANF programs have the flexibility they need to operate successfully.”