Community Corner
Real Welfare Reform for the Holidays
In this holiday season, when our thoughts turn to family, friends and community, it's important to remember those around us who struggle to make ends meet. They're our neighbors, in all of our communities, and they need the programs that our Commonwealth provides.
That's why I support real welfare reform - smart, cost-effective reforms which support education, training, and transportation assistance. Our legislature is considering several provisions which only stigmatize the poor and undermine access to these programs, cutting off low-income families when they have nowhere else to turn.
In particular, I ask our legislators to reject an upfront job search requirement, before applicants can receive any help and work requirements for thousands of disabled parents. Restrictive provisions like these would create unnecessary barriers to families turning to Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children program as a last resort. These provisions are counterproductive and will cost the Commonwealth more in the long run.
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I ask State Senator Pat Jehlen, State Representative Carl Sciortino, and State Representative Tim Toomey to join me in opposing these provisions and passing real reform. With real reforms, improving TAFDC, we can make a huge difference in the lives of our least-fortunate neighbors.
