RSC Member Policy Actions

Washington, Jul 18, 2012 - Reps. Jim Jordan and David Camp introduced H.R. 6140, the Preserving Work Requirements for Welfare Programs Act, which would prohibit the Obama administration from unilaterally granting itself the authority to exempt states from the work requirements that were a critical element of welfare reform enacted in 1996 – potentially opening the door for activities like bed rest, smoking cessation and exercise to be counted as work for the purposes of complying with federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) requirements.

Rep. Jordan issued the following statement:

"The Obama administration’s action last week was illegitimate and totally misguided. Work requirements are tough love, and for sixteen years they have helped people to help themselves. The 1996 reform model should be expanded to other areas of welfare, not cut off at the knees."

Rep. Camp issued the following statement:

"The Obama Administration has once again overstepped its bounds, this time to the detriment of those struggling most under their failed economic policies. The Administration’s unprecedented efforts to undo welfare reforms that resulted in higher earnings and employment for low-income Americans cannot be allowed to stand. This legislation, which I expect the House to consider in the coming days, simply reaffirms what the law already says – that the work requirements at the heart of welfare reform may not be waived.  I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting and passing this important bill and bringing a swift resolution to this matter."

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Congressman Steve Scalise is Chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC).