[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 83 (Monday, June 27, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: June 27, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                             CRIME DOES PAY

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                         HON. E. CLAY SHAW, JR.

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 27, 1994

  Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, as we undertake the monumental task of welfare 
reform, I would like to call to Congress' attention an outrageous 
example of bureaucratic waste and inefficiency. As we speak, felons 
throughout the country who have skipped bail, violated parole or 
probation requirements, or have outstanding warrants for their arrest 
continue to receive welfare benefits.
  The same system that doles out these benefits helps keep the 
criminals from being apprehended. Federal law prevents government 
agencies from sharing a welfare recipient's address with the police. In 
America, a felon running from the law can have his cake, and may eat it 
in freedom too.
  We need to define what a ``fugitive felon'' is and establish a basis 
for much needed information sharing. This unbelievable situation can be 
remedied by a proposal to this effect by Congressman Santorum, which I 
urge all Members to support. With it, we can help get many fugitives 
off the lam and off the dole.

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