Eva M. Clayton: “we have a rare opportunity in this Congress, an opportunity to support a bill that is both bipartisan and bicameral. We…”

“we have a rare opportunity in this Congress, an opportunity to support a bill that is both bipartisan and bicameral. We must and we will have welfare reform. The question is, how will we have welfare reform? But the bill the majority is putting forth, H.R. 3734, does not provide the kind of constructive changes found in the Castle-Tanner alternative that we will also consider. We need reform that makes a difference. We do not need reform that merely is different but makes a difference in lives. Reform means improving, making better, perfecting. Reform of our welfare system should reflect our most basic values: the importance of work, the responsibility of parents to care and provide for their children, and nurturing the hope of a better life in their communities, both for their children and their parents. That is why I believe Castle-Tanner is much preferred over H.R. 3734. Castle-Tanner gives us real reform and it also gives compassion. For example, Castle-Tanner provides real protection for children.”