[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 20 (Tuesday, February 7, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E152]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      -WELFARE INTEGRITY NOW FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES ACT OF 2011

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. RUSH D. HOLT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 1, 2012

  Mr. HOLT. Madam Speaker, last week I voted against the so called 
``Welfare Integrity Now for Children and Families Act of 2011,'' H.R. 
3567.
  H.R. 3567 would require states to prevent the use of Temporary 
Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program benefits in a liquor 
store, casino, or strip club.
  This bill is being disguised as one that would ensure taxpayer 
dollars are being appropriately spent. In reality, this bill is being 
brought to the floor to demean individuals who rely on TANF benefits 
and to imply that they are immoral.
  It is ludicrous to suggest that there is a national problem 
necessitating that Congress stop TANF recipients from spending their 
money at strip clubs.
  TANF is a long-standing program, previously known as Aid for Families 
of Dependent Children, that is one of the most important parts of our 
national safety net and that keeps almost 2 million families from the 
brink of starvation.
  What is missing from this bill is any discussion that in many 
underserved neighborhoods, the closest ATM is located in one of these 
establishments. Preventing the use of TANF cards at these 
establishments could result in TANF beneficiaries not being able to 
access their benefits. Instead of debating how Congress could pass laws 
that would help with economic redevelopment in underserved communities, 
we are spending our time vilifying individuals receiving benefits and 
then sanctimoniously taking credit for preventing any misuse. This is 
part of the message of those who seek to demean the President by 
calling him the food stamp President.
  Further, this bill would cost money--not save it. In New Jersey, it 
is estimated that this bill would cost $100,000 to implement and 
Governor Christie's office wrote to express their concerns about the 
bill.
  For a bill that is supposed to be ensuring that taxpayer dollars are 
being well spent, this bill would hinder individuals from obtaining 
their legitimate benefits and cost states more money. Every Member of 
Congress should have opposed this bill which was more offensive than 
silly.
  H.R. 1173 is another attempt by the Republicans to embarrass 
individuals who are on hard economic times instead of helping them find 
a job.

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