Speech #1040242263

I rise In opposition to this bill and In strong support of the TannerCastle substitute for welfare reform. The TannerCastle proposal Is sounder polIcy for our country and reforms a broken system by focusing on two critical elements: It protects children and it promotes and assures work. The TannerCastle proposal differs from H.R. 3734 In several other Important areas: It provides $3 billion in mandatory resources for work programs. it requires vouchers for the needs of children during the 5year time limit for benefits. enough mandatory funding is provided for child care for all welfare recipients. local governments are allowed greater partick pation in the process of setting up programs in their areas that meet the needs of their citizens. it includes an open ended contingency fund for States to access In the event of an economic recession. it requires a greater annual commitment by the States for welfare programs. it provides food stamp benefits for the children of legal immigrants. These are not differences that negate the reforms of the welfare system that my Republican colleagues are seeking. The provisions I have listed ensure that when we make these reforms we are improving the current system while maintaining a safety net for those who need it.