WASHINGTON — The House is taking up a politically charged bill that would block the Obama administration from waiving any work requirements in the 1996 welfare reform law.
House Republicans are using the bill to renew a political fight that started during the presidential campaign. They say President Barack Obama is trying to gut work requirements in the law — a claim that is (of course) disputed by administration officials.
The bill also authorizes funding for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program through the end of the year at current funding levels. Without an extension,funding for the TANF program would run out March 27.
The House is scheduled to vote on the bill Wednesday. Democrats who control the Senate are expected to oppose the waiver provision. However,the Senate is expected to take up a bill that continues funding for the TANF program,potentially setting up a showdown over the issue.
Last summer,the Obama administration announced it would be willing to grant states waivers of some of the law’s requirements but only if governors can show they can accomplish the same welfare-to-work goals using different methods.
Read more at Official Wire. By Stephen Ohlemacher.
Photo credit:Jessie Owen (Creative Commons)