Welfare Bill Hurts Oregon
Under the Republican plan, Oregon would have to spend an additional $100 million over the next five years to implement the measure and an additional $50 million to cover the cost of needed child care. This comes at a time when the state is facing budget cuts of up to $800 million. Congressman Blumenauer (D-OR) plans to vote against the Republican measure and will support the Democratic alternative version, which maintains state flexibility, focuses on real work, and helps families escape poverty and achieve permanent employment.
Blumenauer released the following statement on today's vote:
"These additions and changes to the welfare program are opposed by the nation's governors, Republicans and Democrats alike. The Democratic alternative maintains state flexibility and programs that work at the local level. It is ironic that yesterday the President signed into law the Farm Bill, a large welfare package that benefits only a few wealthy farmers in a few states who need help the least, while today we take up a bill that burdens those who actually need our help with mean-spirited federal intervention."