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Committee on Ways and Means For Immediate Release Author of Original Welfare Reform Legislation Supports Bush's Continued Emphasis on Work WASHINGTON - Congressman Clay Shaw, the author of the 1996 Welfare Reform bill, today praised President Bush for continuing in the spirit of moving individuals from welfare to work. “In 1996, we realized that the central themes of welfare reform had to be a belief in the human spirit and an emphasis on work. By proposing increased work requirements, President Bush will strengthen an already productive and successful program. If we allow any weakening of these important work requirements, we could return to the tired cycle of welfare dependency. By increasing standards, we show respect for those we are trying to help, and as we have seen, people will rise to high expectations. Welfare reform is, and has been, a rescue mission. For too long, people were trapped in a system that didn’t care about them and didn’t believe in them. Some naysayers predicted that our reforms would bring more poverty and dependence, instead many welfare recipients have transformed into independent individuals able to support themselves and their families. I am encouraged that the President is taking real steps to help more individuals achieve independence." |