Frontline workers need retraining and reduced caseloads to implement a work-based welfare system effectively. All workers should earn a living wage. Increasing the minimum wage will reduce the need for government to supplement low wages through cash assistance, housing, medical and nutrition programs and the Earned Income Tax Credit. The minimum wage should be raised to a living wage. Individuals who lose their jobs should be able to receive income support while they look or train for a new job or career.
Many women cycle between welfare and low wage jobs.
Lifetime limits under AFDC should be rejected so that these women can earn credit and income protection from the welfare system during jobless periods if they do not qualify for unemployment insurance. It destroys the safety net for children, fails to make sure working families will get assistance during recessions, and will drive more working families into poverty and welfare dependency. H.R. 4 will cause thousands of public and private sector workers to lose jobs and will depress the wages of many thousands more. This is the first time in over 20 years that a federal work program has failed to include crucial anti-displacement protections. In addition, states will require recipients to work at subminimum wages.