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Welfare [Reform] Radio Address 4/10/92 [OA 7571]
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Welfare [Reform] Radio Address 4/10/92 [OA 7571]
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26
22
4
4
(Crouse/Simon)
April 9, 1992
7:20 p.m.
Wel-form
PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS:
RADIO PROGRAM
ON WELFARE REFORM
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 1992
8:15 A.M.
The American people have always been a people constantly
searching for improvement -- impatient for change when things
need changing. Last week, I spoke about the need for a change
here in Washington -- for government reform -- especially
Congressional reform. Today, I want to focus on reforming our
welfare system -- especially on our government's role in that
reform process. After years of trying to help those who are in
need, we have found that too often our assistance does not help
people out of poverty, it traps them there. It is not that
people stopped caring -- it's that the system stopped working.
We want a welfare system that breaks the cycle of dependency
before dignity is destroyed and before poverty becomes a family
legacy.
But today, we must face this fact: our system has failed. I
have repeatedly called for the forging of federal-state
partnerships that would make welfare reform a powerful, effective
reality. Yesterday, at my direction, the federal government
waived outdated rules to allow Wisconsin to try a new kind of
welfare reform. Equally important, the plan replaces some of the
old assumptions of the welfare state and recognizes the
importance of personal responsibility, self-respect, independence
and self-sufficiency.
2
In my State of the Union address, I made a commitment to
make it quicker and easier for States with welfare reform ideas
to get the Federal waivers they need. By approving Wisconsin's
waivers 24 days after we received their request, that commitment
now has the force of action. I want to commend Wisconsin
Governor Tommy Thompson and I want to challenge other states to
propose their own reforms. We must balance America's generous
heart with our responsibility to the taxpayers who underwrite
governmental assistance. Our assistance should, in no way,
encourage dependency or undermine our nation's economic
competitiveness. We pay twice for those who make welfare a way
of life -- once for the initial benefits, but even more because
the nation loses their contribution the nation's economic well-
being.
to
Those who receive Government assistance have certain
responsibilities: the responsibility to seek work or get the
education and training that will help them get a job, and the
responsibility to get their lives in order. That means
establishing lifestyles that will enable them to fulfill their
potential -- not destroy it.
We have responsibilities, too. We must structure our
welfare programs so that they reverse policies which lock in a
lifestyle of dependency and subtly destroy self-esteem. We must
encourage family formation and family stability. Too often, our
welfare programs have encouraged exactly the opposite.
3
We must incorporate incentives for recipients to stay in
school. For instance, in Wisconsin, teen parents are required by
the Learnfare program to stay in school to obtain full benefits.
They recognize that in many respects, opportunity is equated with
education. I will have more to say about the urgent need for
educational reform next week -- as we mark the first anniversary
of the crusade I call America 2000.
My approach to welfare reform should not only open the doors
of opportunity for our citizens who are on public assistance, but
also prepare them to walk proudly and competently through those
doors. Our goal is to build a system of welfare that will
encourage self-respect, build strength of character, and develop
to the fullest each individual's potential for a productive,
meaningful life.
Thank you for listening, and may God bless the United States
of America.
#
#
#
Simon
staffed
(Crouse/Simon)
April 9, 1992
Draft One
-B
Wel-form
PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS:
RADIO PROGRAM
ON WELFARE REFORM
FRIDAY, APRIL 10 1992
searching for improvement \ progress \ a better way.
The American people have always been a restless people - constantly
One thing is certain in America today our people want
In that spinit, it's time we took a good look at our welfare system.
change. We especially want our welfare system changed. After
years of trying to help those who are in need, we have found that
our assistance does not help people out of poverty, it traps them
there. We want a welfare system that breaks the cycle of
dependency before dignity is destroyed and before poverty becomes
a family legacy.
But today We must face the fact that our system has failed. I have
repeatedly called for the forging of federal-state partnerships
that would make welfare reform a powerful, effective reality.
Yesterday, at my direction, the federal government waived
outdated rules to allow Wisconsin to try a new kind of welfare
reform. Wisconsin's plan will gently, but inevitably, make
welfare the temporary assistance it was meant to be. Equally
important, the plan replaces the old assumptions of the welfare
state and recognizes the importance of personal responsibility,
self-respect, independence and self-sufficiency.
In my State of the Union address, I made a commitment to
lift the long, burdensome federal approval process for welfare request
reform. By giving quick approval to Wisconsin's waivers that
commitment now has the force of action. I want to commend Wisconsin
Governor Tommy Thompson and I want to challenge other states to
2
propose their own reforms, AA we must balance America's generous
heart with our responsibility to the taxpayers who underwrite
governmental assistance. Our assistance should, in no way,
encourage dependency or undermine our nation's economic
competitiveness. We pay twice for people on welfare -- once for
the initial benefits, but even more because the nation loses
their contribution the nation's economic well-being.
Those who receive Government assistance have certain
responsibilities. They have the responsibility of seeking work
or getting the education and training that will help them get a
job. They have the responsibility of getting their lives in
order -- that means establishing lifestyles that will support
their potential -- not destroy it.
We have responsibilities, too. We must structure our
welfare programs so that they reverse those policies which
guarantee a lifestyle of dependency and subtly destroy self-
esteem. We must reward family formation and actively encourage
families to stay together. Too often, our welfare programs have
encouraged exactly the opposite. We must incorporate incentives
for recipients to stay in school. In many respects, opportunity
is equated with education. I will have more to say about the
urgent need for educational reform next week -- as we mark the
first anniversary of the crusade I call America 2000.
My proposals for welfare reform will not only open the doors
of opportunity for our citizens who are on public assistance, but
they will also prepare them to walk M proudly and competently
3
th
through those doors. Our goal is to build a system of welfare
that will encourage self-respect, build strength of character,
and develop to the fullest each individual's potential for a
productive, meaningful life.
Thank you for listening and may God bless the United States
of America.
#####
TOMMY G. THOMPSON
Governor
State of Wisconsin
FACSIMILE COVER SHEET
TO:
Bob Simon
FROM:
Peggy Dooley
DATE:
4-9-92
TIME: 12:30
RE:
Number of pages including this transmittal sheet:
8
If pages are not all received or are illegible, please call:
2 608/246-1212
MESSAGE:
STATE OF WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Welfare Reform
THE PARENTAL AND
FAMILY RESPONSIBILITY
INITIATIVE
Tommy G. Thompson
Governor
April 1992
STATE OF WISCONSIN
PARENTAL AND FAMILY RESPONSIBILITY INITIATIVE
Executive Summary
The problems associated with "children having babies" are well documented: school
drop-outs, low birth weight babies, female-headed families in poverty and welfare depen-
dency. However, the roots of teen pregnancy go well beyond the teenage girl and her
behavior. To address teen pregnancy, we must view this problem as a symptom of the
lack of opportunity in low-income neighborhoods, the lack of male responsibility for teen
parenting, and the dissolution of traditional two-parent families.
The Parental and Family Responsibility Initiative is a pilot program designed to
promote and preserve families by removing disincentives in the welfare system that
serve as barriers to young couples from marrying and working. The Initiative targets
AFDC applicants under the age of 20, who are first-time parents, and their spouses, the
adjudicated fathers of their child(ren), and non-custodial parents.
It will encourage low-income youth to delay pregnancy and parenting, to finish
school, to form a two-parent family, to work, and to be financially and socially respon-
sible parents. By piloting this program in four Wisconsin counties, including Milwaukee,
the State of Wisconsin will be taking a serious step toward addressing the problem of
teen pregnancy and parenting.
By eliminating the requirement that one member of a low-income married couple
have a work history to be eligible for AFDC, the Initiative removes the disincentive
in the AFDC program for young parents to marry. By permitting welfare recipi-
ents to keep more of their earnings, the Initiative will encourage people to work.
And by putting the educational, training and job experience resources of the state and
federal JOBS program behind these low-income, young parents, the Initiative will pro-
vide opportunities for people to become self-sufficient.
Also, the Initiative will encourage low-income teenagers to complete school and to
delay pregnancy by requiring participation in sex education and parenting classes,
and by removing the financial incentives in the welfare system to have additional chil-
dren.
To encourage male responsibility for parenting and supporting their chil-
dren when there is no marriage or when a divorce occurs, the Initiative will combine the
authority and resources of the welfare agency, the family court and the employment and
training staff to ensure prompt paternity establishment, to establish an obligation
to support the child(ren), and to require the education and work activities needed
to meet support obligations.
2
HOW THE INITIATIVE WILL WORK
The Department of Health and Social Services will establish a pilot Parental and
Family Responsibility Initiative in Milwaukee and three other counties to determine
whether fundamental changes providing incentives and opportunities in the welfare
system, combined with enforcement of child support orders and sanctions for failure to
cooperate, will reduce the teen pregnancy and parenting rates in the four counties.
AFDC recipients under age 20, who are first-time parents, and their spouses, the
adjudicated fathers of their child(ren), and non-custodial parents will be affected by the
provisions of the Initiative. Once the Initiative starts, those eligible individuals would
continue to be subject to the provisions of the Initiative as long as the program is in
effect, unless the individuals leave AFDC for a three year period.
Objectives of the Initiative
The objectives of the Parental and Family Responsibility Initiative are:
To reduce long term welfare dependency among families headed by male and
female teen parents.
To delay subsequent births to first-time teen parents who are receiving AFDC
until they are ready to emotionally and financially support additional children.
To strengthen family life by enabling the formation and preservation of two-
parent families.
To increase parenting skills of AFDC recipient teen parents and non-custodial
parents through the provision of comprehensive integrated educational,
employment-related and health and personal development services.
To increase gainful employment of AFDC recipient teen parents in order to
achieve self-sufficiency.
To increase child support collections and to expedite paternity establishment for
children born to teen parents.
3
Components of the Initiative
Under current AFDC policy, all AFDC recipients are eligible for Medical Assistance,
Food Stamps and child care expenses. All AFDC recipients who leave AFDC because
they earn more than AFDC allows are eligible for 12 months of Medical Assistance
benefits and transitional child care. These benefits are available to single parents now
and would also be available to the newly eligible two-parent family. AFDC recipients are
also subject to Learnfare requirements if the mother or father has not completed high
school. Upon completion of high school, employment and training services are available
through the JOBS program.
In addition to the existing services described above, the Parental and Family Re-
sponsibility Initiative will include the following components:
Eligibility Criteria - Current AFDC eligibility criteria require either that an
applicant be a single parent or, if the applicants are married, one of them must have an
employment history. These "deprivation factors" are traditional factors used to establish
a need for aid based on the fact that a child is "deprived" of the support of a mother,
father, or both parents. Because the AFDC eligibility criteria essentially require couples
to have an established work history, there is no where for a young couple to turn for help
if they wish to marry and support their child, but have not yet worked. This situation
tends to force young parents to be single parents.
The Parental and Family Responsibility Initiative will allow young couples with no
work experience to be eligible for AFDC. This change in policy will make marriage a
viable option to pregnant and single teens, especially if they are older teens. The pro-
gram is targeted at first-time teen parents who are new applicants for AFDC or are
currently part of an existing AFDC family.
Work Incentives - Incentives to work will be increased by allowing participants in
this program to keep the first $200 and one-half of additional earnings per month. Cur-
rently, AFDC recipients who work are only allowed to keep the first $30 and 1/6 or 1/3 of
their earned income.
Grant Size - Currently, the AFDC grant increases with the size of the family.
There is the appearance in the AFDC program that parents who have additional babies
are "rewarded" with an increased grant. Therefore, the Parental and Family Responsi-
bility Initiative will limit the size of the AFDC grant when a second baby is born and not
increase the grant for any additional children. The following table shows how the AFDC
grant will change with an additional child born into an AFDC family:
4
Single Parent
Maximum AFDC Benefit
Children in
Current
Revised
AFDC Family
Policy
Proposal
1 Child
$440
$440
2 Children
$517
$479
3 Children
$617
$479
Two Parents
Maximum AFDC Benefit
Children in
Current
Revised
AFDC Family
Policy
Proposal
1 Child
$517
$517
2 Children
$617
$579
3 Children
$708
$579
Parental Education - The Parental and Family Responsibility Initiative will require
all AFDC recipients under age 20 in the pilot counties and their spouses or the non-
custodial parents to participate in classes on parenting, human growth and development,
sex education, and independent living. Attendance will be a condition of AFDC eligibility
for participants in the Initiative and a requirement of the education and work activity
requirement for non-custodial parents.
Male Responsibility - Currently, when a pregnant single teen applies for aid, the
county economic support worker refers the case to the child support agency to initiate
paternity establishment and orders for support. Once paternity is established, the court
must order support for the baby. If the father is unemployed, the judge can order him to
"seek work," but the court has no resources to assist him. The father is on his own, with
no job history and often no high school degree.
Under the Parental and Family Responsibility Initiative, all unemployed non-
custodial parents in the pilot counties will be ordered by the judge to "seek work" by
reporting to the county JOBS program.
An unemployed, non-custodial parent who does not fulfill his or her child support
obligations will be required to participate for 40 hours a week in a combination of educa-
tion, parenting and work activities. Education opportunities could include completing
high school or attending a vocational education program.
5
Failure to cooperate with work experience and training activities for non-custodial
parents will result in a return to court in contempt of the "seek work" order. Thus, the
authority of the court is joined with an employment requirement to ensure the young
parent becomes self-sufficient and meets his or her child support obligation.
Paternity and Child Support - One of the major objectives of the Parental and
Family Responsibility Initiative is to reinforce the importance of male responsibility in
parenting and child support. A DHSS study of minor mothers on AFDC revealed that in
about half the cases, paternity was established within one year after the baby was born
In about 30 percent of the cases, paternity establishment was expected to take more than
one year. In the remaining 20 percent of the cases, the report concluded that paternity
would never be established. Enforcement of the consequences of parenting cannot pro-
ceed promptly if paternity takes months to establish.
Counties that pilot the Parental and Family Responsibility Initiative will be encour-
aged to improve coordination of economic support and child support paternity staff to
expedite paternity establishment for all AFDC applicants, including low income single
parents under age 20, who are the target group for this Initiative. Counties that partici-
pate in the Initiative will receive a $200 increase (from $100 to $300) in the bonus paid
for paternities established within one year for babies born to women under 20 years of
age. County child support agencies will be encouraged to use the incentive funding to
experiment with innovative ways to expedite paternity establishment. In addition, one
family court commissioner will be added in Milwaukee County to deal solely with pater-
nity actions.
6
PARENTALAND FAMILY
RESPONSIBILITY INITIATIVE
Questions and Answers
Who is affected by the initiative?
First-time parents, under age 20, and their spouses, the adjudicated fathers and the non-
custodial parents of the applicants' children will be affected by the provisions of the
Initiative.
How long will participants be affected?
Once the Initiative starts, those eligible individuals would continue to be subject to the
provisions of the Initiative as long as the program is in effect, unless the individuals
leave AFDC for a three year period.
How does the initiative remove disincentives to marry?
Under the Initiative, a young married couple with no work history is eligible for AFDC
for the first time and allowed to work full time without losing AFDC eligibility.
Do AFDC benefits increase for additional children?
Yes. Under the Initiative, AFDC benefits will increase for a second child of either mar-
ried couples or single parents in the program. The family will receive one-half of the
regular AFDC grant increase for a second child ($38), but no increase for additional
children.
What assistance will participants receive?
If eligible, benefits under the Initiative include: AFDC benefits, Medical Assistance,
Food Stamps, participation in JOBS, child care. Also, working participants can retain
$200 plus one-half of their earnings.
What is the cost of teen pregnancy to Wisconsin?
One estimate of the cost to Wisconsin taxpayers in 1989 for housing, food, education and
day care for families headed by teenage mothers was $437 million, based on information
from the Center for Population Options in Washington D.C.
7
Today, I'd like to talk about the troubled state of our
welfare system. The American people have always been a generous
people; they want to help those in need. But it is now clear,
after a generation of trying, that our welfare system does not
help people out of poverty, but traps them there. This is not
the fault of individuals; the system has failed. So now it's
time to change the system. We need reform that breaks the cycle
of dependency before the recipient's dignity is destroyed and
before poverty becomes a family legacy.
In my State of the Union address, I made a commitment to
change the system. Yesterday, at my direction, the federal
government waived outdated rules to allow Wisconsin to try a new
kind of welfare reform. I want to commend Governor Tommy
Thompson and the people of Wisconsin for their imagination and
commitment to replace the old assumptions and renew the
connections between personal responsibility, self-respect,
independence, and self-sufficiency. And I want to challenge
other states to make their own reforms to balance America's
generous heart with our responsibility to the taxpayers who
underwrite public assistance.
(Crouse/Simon)
April 9, 1992
Draft One
-A
Wel-form
PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS:
RADIO PROGRAM
ON WELFARE REFORM
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 1992
One thing is certain in America today -- our people want
change. We especially want our welfare system changed. After
years of trying to help those who are in need, we have found that
our assistance does not help people out of poverty, it traps them
there. We want a welfare system that breaks the cycle of
dependency before dignity is destroyed and before poverty becomes
a family legacy.
We must face the fact that our system has failed. I have
repeatedly called for the forging of federal-state partnerships
that would make welfare reform a powerful, effective reality.
Yesterday, at my direction, the federal government waived
outdated rules to allow Wisconsin to try a new kind of welfare
reform. Wisconsin's plan will gently, but inevitably, make
welfare the temporary assistance it was meant to be. Equally
important, the plan replaces the old assumptions of the welfare
state and recognizes the importance of personal responsibility,
self-respect, independence and self-sufficiency.
In my State of the Union address, I made a commitment to to
lift the long, burdensome federal approval process for welfare
reform. By giving quick approval to Wisconsin's waivers, that
commitment now has the force of action. I want to commend
Governor Tommy Thompson and I want to challenge other states to
2
propose their own reforms -- we must balance America's generous
heart with our responsibility to the taxpayers who underwrite
governmental assistance. Our assistance should, in no way,
encourage dependency or undermine our nation's economic
competitiveness. We pay twice for people on welfare -- once for
the initial benefits, but even more because the nation loses
their contribution the nation's economic well-being.
Those who receive Government assistance have certain
responsibilities. They have the responsibility of seeking work
or getting the education and training that will help them get a
job. They have the responsibility of getting their lives in
order -- that means establishing lifestyles that will support
their potential -- not destroy it -- and it means forming
families and holding their families together
We have responsibilities, too. We must structure our
welfare programs so that they reverse those policies which
guarantee a lifestyle of dependency and subtly destroy self-
esteem. We must reward family formation and actively encourage
families to stay together. Too often, our welfare programs have
encouraged exactly the opposite. We must incorporate incentives
for recipients to stay in school. I will have more to say about
the urgent need for educational reform next week -- as we mark
the first anniversary of the crusade I call America 2000.
My proposals for welfare reform will not only open the doors
of opportunity for our citizens who are on public assistance, but
they will also prepare them to walk -- proudly and competently
3
-- through those doors. Our goal is to build a system of welfare
that will encourage self-respect, build strength of character,
and develop to the fullest each individual's potential for a
productive, meaningful life.
Thank you for listening and may God bless the United States
of America.
#####
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
January 22, 1992
Bob 20 with
MEMORANDUM FOR BILL KRISTOL
FROM:
CHARLES E.M. KOLB Crmk
SUBJECT:
Welfare Reform
Attached is draft language on welfare reform that you requested
this morning. I hope it's helpful.
The last paragraph is somewhat controversial. I believe that
we need to link Federal welfare benefits to mandatory
immunization for children whose parents currently receive WIC,
AFDC, and Medicaid. I gather, however, that Secretary Sullivan
optional. feels differently. Needless to say, the third paragraph is
Attachment
The time has come for a serious look at reforming our
welfare system. Our goal should be to provide public
assistance that promotes both self-sufficiency and
independence. Several of our States are experimenting with
major changes in how welfare is delivered, and the message sent
by these welfare reforms is simple and it's fair: public
assistance must be linked to responsible individual behavior.
Americans are a generous people, and we will continue to
provide support for those who are disabled and physically
handicapped, but for able-bodied Americans, welfare should be
temporary, not forever.
And that is why I applaud these State initiatives that
will encourage responsible behavior. Wherever possible, I will
ensure that Federal efforts will further these State reforms.
For years our States have been "laboratories of democracy,' and
it is true now whether it's "Workfare," "Learnfare," or even
"Wedfare." Efforts at State flexibility will be met with
Federal flexibility through expedited waivers of Federal rules
and regulations that might impede State welfare reforms. We
will seek to strengthen the links between welfare benefits, job
training, and education so that people get more than just a
handout -- they will get help up the ladder of success by
achieving the skills necessary to become productive citizens.
We can assist these initiatives at the Federal level, too.
One of the most important things we can do, particularly for
our youngsters, is to ensure that they have a head start in
life -- a head start that will ensure their ability to arrive
at school ready to learn. Last week, I announced the largest
increase ever in Head Start. Coupled with strong families and
parents who take the time to read to their children, Head Start
will help us meet that school readiness goal. But there is
more that we can do. Many children whose parents may be
receiving assistance oftentimes lack vital immunizations
against measles and other serious childhood diseases. I will
shortly be submitting to Congress legislation that will link
the continuation of AFDC, WIC, and Medicaid services on parents
doing what's right: making sure that their young children get
the immunizations they so desperately need.
[go on to mention support for immunization services -- i.e.,
resources are already there to do this.]
Staffed version
(Crouse/Simon)
April 9, 1992
Draft One
Wel-form
PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS:
RADIO PROGRAM
ON WELFARE REFORM
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 1992
One thing is certain in America today -- our people want
change. We especially want our welfare system changed. After
years of trying to help those who are in need, we have found that
our assistance does not help people out of poverty, it traps them
there. We want a welfare system that breaks the cycle of
dependency before dignity is destroyed and before poverty becomes
a family legacy.
We must face the fact that our system has failed. I have
repeatedly called for the forging of federal-state partnerships
that would make welfare reform a powerful, effective reality.
Yesterday, at my direction, the federal government waived
outdated rules to allow Wisconsin to try a new kind of welfare
reform. Wisconsin's plan will gently, but inevitably, make
welfare the temporary assistance it was meant to be. Equally
important, the plan replaces the old assumptions of the welfare
state and recognizes the importance of personal responsibility,
self-respect, independence and self-sufficiency.
In my State of the Union address, I made a commitment to
lift the long, burdensome federal approval process for welfare
reform. By giving quick approval to Wisconsin's waivers, that
commitment now has the force of action. I want to commend
Governor Tommy Thompson and I want to challenge other states to
2
propose their own reforms -- we must balance America's generous
heart with our responsibility to the taxpayers who underwrite
governmental assistance. Our assistance should, in no way,
encourage dependency or undermine our nation's economic
competitiveness. We pay twice for people on welfare -- once for
the initial benefits, but even more because the nation loses
their contribution the nation's economic well-being.
Those who receive Government assistance have certain
responsibilities. They have the responsibility of seeking work
or getting the education and training that will help them get a
job. They have the responsibility of getting their lives in
order -- that means establishing lifestyles that will support
their potential -- not destroy it.
We have responsibilities, too. We must structure our
welfare programs so that they reverse those policies which
guarantee a lifestyle of dependency and subtly destroy self-
esteem. We must reward family formation and actively encourage
families to stay together. Too often, our welfare programs have
encouraged exactly the opposite. We must incorporate incentives
for recipients to stay in school. In many respects, opportunity
is equated with education. I will have more to say about the
urgent need for educational reform next week -- as we mark the
first anniversary of the crusade I call America 2000.
My proposals for welfare reform will not only open the doors
of opportunity for our citizens who are on public assistance, but
they will also prepare them to walk -- proudly and competently
3
-- through those doors. Our goal is to build a system of welfare
that will encourage self-respect, build strength of character,
and develop to the fullest each individual's potential for a
productive, meaningful life.
Thank you for listening and may God bless the United States
of America.
#####
DRAFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
April , 1992
= fundamental
refours waivers. labs of democrances"
as a first step
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT
I am pleased we have been able to provide the waivers
needed for another chapter in Wisconsin's pioneering effort in
welfare reform.
Bucourging personal and furnity responsibility
In my State of the Union address this year, I said the
states are beginning to operate welfare programs with new
assumptions about the responsibilities to the taxpayer by those
who receive governmental assistance. Wisconsin's Parental and
Family Responsibility Demonstration Project shows how ideas of
responsibility can be put to work.
I also said we would help states obtain the waivers they
need to make reform work. I am pleased that Wisconsin's
request, which holds to the highest standards of rigorous
design and evaluation, could be approved in
days.
Lane
has been
###
DRAFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
April
1992
,
The State of Wisconsin's
Parental and Family Responsibility Demonstration Project
FACT SHEET
The President today met with Wisconsin Governor Tommy
Thompson and Secretary of Health and Human Services Louis W.
Sullivan to discuss the State of Wisconsin's welfare reform
project which was approved today. Wisconsin's reform is the
first to be approved since the President promised in his State
of the Union address that his Administration would make the
process of obtaining federal waivers easier and quicker.
The demonstration targets male and females under the age
of 20 who have their first child or who are experiencing their
first pregnancy. The demonstrations seeks to determine whether
changes in the Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC)
program and additional social services will encourage the
target group to delay having additional children until they are
able to support a family both emotionally and financially,
enable two-parent families to form and remain; and reduce
welfare dependency among families headed by teen parents by
encouraging gainful employment.
Background
Over one half of all current AFDC recipients in Wisconsin
had their first child when they were teens. Earlier estimates
suggest that an average one year delay in childbearing by teens
in Wisconsin would reduce public costs by $43.8 million over
the next twenty years.
Teen births tend to be birth to unmarried parents.
Outside of Milwaukee County, 68 percent of the Wisconsin teens
who gave birth in 1988 were unmarried. In Milwaukee County 90
percent of teen births were to unmarried women. Eighty eight
percent of births to Wisconsin adolescents in 1987 were first
births; 11 percent were second births; one percent were third
or higher order births.
Elements of the Wisconsin Demonstration
The project is expected to begin July 1, 1993. The
project will cover target group members who receive or who
apply for AFDC in three counties, one of which will be
Milwaukee.
Waivers of federal rules will enable the state to:
1. Eliminate, for married couples, the current AFDC-
Unemployed Parent eligibility criteria which requires one
parent to have a work history and work less than 100 hours
per month in order to be eligible for AFDC;
2. Limit payment for additional children born in current or
former AFDC households that return to the AFDC rolls, with
an increase in AFDC payments of only one half of the
normal payment increase when a second child is born and no
increase for third or subsequent children;
3. Increase the amount of monthly earnings disregarded in
calculating AFDC payment amounts from $33 plus one-third
of additional monthly amounts to $200 plus 1/2;
4. Require participation in comprehensive education and
employment-related services, including parenting and
family life education; and
5. Allow non-custodial parents (most often fathers) who are
unemployed and not meeting their support obligation to
their children to participate in employment and training
services offered to custodial parents who are receiving
AFDC.
The project includes an experimental design, in which some
AFDC cases will be in the group that is subject to the
project's rules and other cases making up a control group that
will continue to participate in the traditional AFDC program.
Use of this design will enable statistically valid conclusions
to be made about the effects of the demonstration.
The project will run for five years.
,
[individuals] [AFDC cases] are expected to participate over that
time.
###
04-09-92 07:26AM
From HHS
P02
change
Under the direction of Governor Thompson, Wisconsin is among
those states leading the critical job of reforming the country's
welfare system. He and the thoughtful people of his state
realize that new assumptions are needed to make welfare temporary
assistance, not a guaranteed lifestyle and a subtle destroyer of
spirit and family life.
In my state of the union address I made a commitment to the
American people to help the welfare reform movement by lifting
the long, burdensome federal approval process for every state
that asks our help. Today, I am happy to make good on my promise
by approving Wisconsin application less than four weeks after
receiving it. By backing up my words with action, I hope that
other states will be convinced that my support for testing new
ideas in the crucible of democracy goes beyond mere words.
I am renewing my call to states to come forth with reforms
which, like Wisconsin's, replace the assumptions of the old
welfare state by recognizing that healthy adults have a
responsibility to work and to act in the best interest of their
family's well-being.
If states begin to work with us as soon as possible and
agree to conduct an evaluation which will decisively tell us of
the reform's impact, we can promise that Wisconsin's quick
approval will be only the first of many success stories under the
new federal state welfare-reform partnership.
Over the next several months, I look forward to many more
meetings like this with Lou Sullivan and governors of other
forward looking states.
Weekly Compilation of
Presidential
Documents
Monday, March 23, 1992
Volume 28-Number 12
Pages 483-522
111 RESEARCH
Pres Documents
4
486
r. 16 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
me. And I will tell other Americans about
both with us here today. I salute them. And
a place where people still believe in hope,
may I single out former Secretary of Com-
where they work together for their neigh-
merce, Bob Mosbacher, who is now a co-
bors, where they succeed. And I'll tell the
chairman of our campaign sitting down here,
story of Steeltech, and I'll end by saying these
and Bobby Holt's with us somewhere, our
men and women prove that the American
national finance chairman. And I am very,
dream can still come true. I just wish each
very grateful to both of them. And Bob did
and every one of you that might not be inti-
a superb job for commerce in this country.
mately familiar with this firm could have
Thank you, Mr. Mosbacher.
heard the spirit of the workers that I was
And I could not possibly come back to
privileged to talk to, albeit briefly, when I
Wisconsin without saluting my longtime
first came into this plant.
friend-picked me up, dusted me off in the
So thank you, David. And thank all of you
dark ages when we were really down and
for what you're doing in this wonderful-I
been at my side ever since, same for
would say, experience-let me call it instead
Tommy-and I'm talking about John
a success story. I will take this message out
MacIver, our Bush-Quayle chairman over
and bring it home to America: We can suc-
here. And again, our thanks to Fred Luber
ceed. We will succeed. And we will get this
for cochairing this and his wife, Ann; and also
economy moving dynamically in the future.
for Wisconsin's chairman, David Opitz; and
Thank you all very, very much.
Mike Grebe over here, a longtime friend and
Note: The President spoke at 11:05 a.m. at
now our national committeeman. You have
Steeltech Manufacturing, Inc. In his remarks,
a wonderful team.
he referred to the following Steeltech officers:
Someone asked me what I think of the
G. David Guerrero, president and chief exec-
challenger who has no leadership experience
utive officer; Charles L. Wallace, chairman
whatsoever but thinks he's qualified to as-
of the board; and Janet E. Crosby, human
sume high office. Frankly, I think Phil Gar-
resources manager. He also referred to Fred
ner will do a fine job with the Brewers, out-
G. Luber, chairman and chief executive offi-
standing. [Laughter] And it is good to get
cer, and Roger D. Peirce, president and chief
out of Washington. And I'll tell you what's
operating officer, Super Steel Products Corp.;
going on on Capitol Hill right now gives new
and R. Eugene Goodson, chief executive offi-
meaning to the phrase, "The check's in the
cer of Oshkosh Truck Corp.
mail." [Laughter]
You know, too many people in Washington
are fixated on the next election, and too few
are focused on the next generation. And we
Remarks at a Bush-Quayle
are in a battle for our future. And we want
Fundraising Luncheon in Milwaukee
America to lead the world in good jobs with
March 16, 1992
productive work. And we want to and we will
remain a force for world peace and freedom.
Thank you, Governor Thompson, and
And we're for fighting to protect our most
thank all of you for that warm welcome. Sue
basic institution: the family.
Ann, it is such a treat to see you again. May
That's why this year of decision is so vital
I second the motion on Bob Kasten; it is ab-
for America. And that's why April's primary
solutely essential that he be reelected. And
election and November's general election are
I'm glad to be here with him today.
vital to our future. I'm asking you to get out
And earlier this morning, we were out at
to vote and create a resounding mandate to
a very dynamic steel company. And I want
transform America. Let's nominate and elect
to thank Fred Luber for his sponsorship and
men and women who share our values. We've
leadership in seeing this minority business
got more to do to get America on the right
out there have a real shot at the American
track. And so I am asking you today for 4
B
dream. But with us out there was Lt. Gov-
more years as President of the United States
ernor Scott McCallum and his wife Laurie,
of America.
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / Mar. 16
487
America was built on faith, family, and
say to them, "Get out of the way." Choice
freedom. And these form the foundation of
works in Wisconsin, and we're going to take
our great country. And we must now renew
this crusade to every State in the Union.
those sources of our strength. We must allow
Incidentally, and perhaps parenthetically,
common sense to prevail, for example, in our
here's another choice I deeply support. I
welfare system, forge a new connection be-
really believe, because I talk about family and
tween welfare and work. And as I've said,
faith, I really believe our children have the
I am encouraging States to seek waivers to
right to choose voluntary prayer in school.
reform the Nation's welfare programs. And
And I'd like to see something done about
today, standing right here, Governor Thomp-
it.
son is submitting such a waiver request, and
Parents, not some bureaucrat in Washing-
I look forward to receiving it.
ton, know what is best for the kids. And that's
You're on the right track right here in Wis-
why I worked to win this child care bill, with
consin with learnfare, Bob referred to this,
Bob Kasten's support, a bill that gives parents
with workfare, and the proposed Parental
the right to choose who provides the care.
Responsibility Act. Those are just a few of
the reasons why more and more people are
And we know America is first as long as we
beginning to say, "Watch Wisconsin because
put the family first.
Wisconsin works."
And for 3 years I've had to struggle fight-
The people of the country, like the people
ing the liberal leadership of the Congress on
of the State, are not stingy. Americans are
these issues. And I'm going to continue to
a caring people. If somebody else is hurting,
stand and fight for principle even when Con-
we feel it. And we support welfare for fami-
gress stands in the way. And thank God again
lies in need. But Americans want to see gov-
for Bob Kasten and his cohorts on our side
ernment at every level, for example, work to-
in the Senate.
gether to track down the deadbeat dads, the
We've put judges on the bench, on the
ones who can't be bothered to pay child sup-
Federal bench, who know their role is to in-
port. And they want to see us break this cycle,
terpret the law, not legislate from the Fed-
this ugly and deplorable cycle of dependency
eral bench. And I will use the veto when I
that destroys dignity and then passes down
have to-another point-to stand for prin-
poverty from one generation to the next. It's
ciple, to stand up for family values. And if
wrong. It's cruel. And we're working to
I had the kind of line-item power that your
change it. And we're encouraging States to
Governor has, I would prove once and for
Williams
As it is, even my friends have said that at
Polly Black: State
Schools
follow Governor Thompson's lead, to follow
all, that the pen is mightier than the sword.
Wisconsin's lead, with plans that help people
break welfare dependency and begin learn-
times I was courting defeat by casting a veto
ing work skills.
out there instead of compromising. But we've
behakeds
And we will continue to fight for the par-
never lost a veto fight. And I'll never hesitate
ents' right to choose their children's schools.
to use it when principle is at stake.
School choice is at the heart of our wonder-
You remember, I asked Congress to pass
fully exciting America 2000, our strategy to
tax cuts and incentives to get the economy
revolutionize, literally revolutionize, Amer-
moving, to get real estate up and running,
ican education.
to reward the risktakers who create good
And Wisconsin knows what I mean. Think
jobs. And one reason Wisconsin has weath-
of the groundbreaking efforts of Polly Wil-
ered the recession better than most of the
liams, whom I talked to from Air Force One
other States is that Wisconsin kept the cut
this morning. This State pioneered the fron-
on capital gains and Wisconsin business taxes
tier of school choice, because, as Tommy
are among the lowest in the Nation. And
said, the Governor said, "It was the right
Wisconsin works, and it's time Washington
thing to do." And I'm grateful to say, it looks
woke up to why. And I am, again, calling
like your State supreme court would agree.
on the Congress to cut the tax on capital
And there are those who find change dif-
gains. It is a job creator, not a break for the
ficult. And some say, "Slow down." And we
rich.
488
Mar. 16 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
But instead of passing my plan, the big
Think back. Think back to just about a year
D
spenders that control the Congress had other
ago, to the calm after Desert Storm. And ask
ideas. And here they are: In the House of
any one of the proud sons and daughters of
Ac
Representatives, a temporary cut for more
Wisconsin who became liberators of Kuwait,
people, tax cut; in the Senate, a permanent
and they'll tell you that military strength
cut for less people. How much? Twenty-five
doesn't mean a thing without moral support
Adc
cents a day, a quarter a day for each man,
right here at home.
S
woman, and child in America. Fine, but
And yes, there were some who didn't sup-
what's the catch? Ninety billion dollars in
port us then, and there are those who sec-
A
new permanent taxes. And the Democrats
ond-guess us now, but not here, not in Wis-
call that, as Bob knows, new revenue. And
consin. When I drew that line in the sand,
A
I call it your money.
you stood with me. And never would this
And remember, we set a deadline: March
country tuck tail and let aggression stand.
A
20th. And that's just 4 days away. And I said
And America did what was good and just,
A:
to Congress, "Pass our plan. Help get our
and we did what was right.
economy moving. Do something good and
And there are those who act as if America's
right now for the American people." And
work in the world is over. Come back; come
we'll fight, and we'll win. We may have to
home. And to them I say, "We will never
veto—I will veto the tax bills if they come
neglect America's vital national interests."
out of the House and Senate anything like
And as far as our national defense goes, I
they are today. Make no mistake about it.
am going to continue to keep this country
And we're going to keep to our leadership
strong so that our worldwide credibility, now
course in the world economy. Because if we
at an all-time high, will help us strengthen
want to succeed economically at home, and
democracy, freedom, and peace around the
Tommy touched on this one, we've got to
entire world. Look around the world, it is
lead economically abroad. Trade with our
only our country, it is only the United States
neighbors, trade with the world is important
of America that can lead the world. And as
here in Wisconsin. And this State exports
long as I am President, I am going to stay
$15.4 billion in manufactured goods in a sin-
engaged and do just exactly that.
gle year, that's billion dollars. And almost
Let my opponents, both sides, sound the
200,000, I believe the figure is, Wisconsin
retreat, run from the new realities, seek ref-
jobs-somewhere in there-depend on ex-
uge in a world of protectionism or high taxes
ports, direct and indirect.
or big Government. And let the analysts on
But my opponents are peddling protec-
the tube tick off everything that's wrong in
J
tionism, a retreat from economic reality. You
America. We know what's right. And let me
cut through all the patriotic posturing and
say, too, I am counting on the good people
all the tough talk about "fighting back" by
of Wisconsin to reject the ugly politics of hate
closing shop, and look closely. That is not
that is rearing its head. Racism, anti-Semi-
the American flag they're waving. It is the
tism, and bigotry have no place in the United
white flag of surrender. And that's not the
States of America. And we must continue to
America that you and I know. America does
stand for that principle.
not cut and run, and we compete. And never
Let me close by saying that, in the first
in this Nation's long history have we turned
place, I'm very proud of our First Lady. She's
our backs on a challenge, and we simply are
not here, but I can say it with great pride
not going to start that now.
in what Barbara Bush has done raising the
K
I put my faith in the American worker.
standards for literacy in this country and just
I mentioned this out there at the steel plant:
being a wonderfully decent family person.
Level the playing field and our worker, the
And I know this sounds maybe a little too
American worker will outthink, outproduce,
prideful, but I think she's been a superb First
and outperform anyone, anywhere, anytime.
Lady. And we are very blessed, if you will,
So we've got to let the world know this:
blessed to serve this great Nation of ours at
Whatever the challenge, America will meet
a moment when so many of the old fears
it. We are in it to win.
have been driven away, and when so many
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / Mar. 16
489
new opportunities stand within our reach.
Father Phillips, and, of course, to one of your
Since the day I took the oath of office I made
own, a great friend of ours who has helped
it my responsibility, my duty to try to do what
so much in this administration as he did in
is right for this wonderful country that's been
Congress; I'm talking about Secretary Ed
so good to us. I've given it my level-best, and
Derwinski, known to all of you here. And
I'm not done yet. I am not finished.
may I pay my respects to Poland's Consul
You and I have much more work before
General Michal Grocholski, who is here be-
we've finished our mission. It's a battle for
hind us. Delighted to have you here, sir. And
our future: It's about jobs; its about family;
again, thank you for that warm Chicago wel-
it's about something big, world peace, the
come.
kind of legacy we're going to leave our kids.
Somebody suggested that this visit has
Together, we've made a great beginning.
something to do with a primary election.
I take great pride that the young people in
True, I'm working to win that election. But
this country go to sleep today without quite
if anyone thinks we've got political headaches
the fear of nuclear war that perhaps their
here, they're nothing compared with the
parents had not so many years ago. We want.
problems that free Poland is facing today,
to renew the miracle of American enterprise.
particularly Lech Walesa is facing. We have
We want to strengthen the underpinnings of
two major parties here in this country. But
our society, the values of family and faith and
look at all the parties he has to contend with,
freedom. And now we're approaching an
close to 20, 20 at the last count. Even the
hour of decision-and next month, right here
Polish Beer Drinkers' Party-[laughter]-
in this State. Don't wait until November. I'm
true, they've split into two factions. Now, I
asking you to vote on April 7th in the Repub-
know you follow Poland, but I don't know
lican primary. Give me your vote in this im-
whether it's the light beer faction or what-
portant election next month. Help me win
ever it is.
4 more years to lead the fight for these fun-
But I salute their President. I salute him
damental values we share.
for what he's doing. And he stood there when
Thank you all so very, very much. And may
things weren't free, and there he is now,
God bless the United States of America.
leading that country. And I really want to
Thank you.
pay my respects here, surrounded by his
many friends and admirers.
Note: The President spoke at 12:18 p.m. at
Whenever I come here, I remember other
the Pfister Hotel. In his remarks, he referred
occasions that I've had to get together with
to Sue Ann Thompson, wife of Governor
the community. Back in 1988 at the wake
Tommy Thompson; John K Maclver, chair-
for Al Mazewski, who was head of this mar-
man, and Fred G. Luber, finance cochair-
velous alliance, I remember that well. At the
man, Wisconsin Bush-Quayle campaign;
inaugural celebration for my dear friend over
David W. Opitz, chairman of the Republican
here, Ed Moskal, I remember that one well:
Party of Wisconsin; Phil Garner, manager of
upbeat, enthusiastic. And then, of course, at
the Milwaukee Brewers baseball team; and
a very beautiful special service, a Sunday
State legislator Polly Williams.
Mass at St. Hyacinth's Church, which re-
minded me of a church that I visited outside
Warsaw not so many months ago. But at St.
Hyacinth's I had the privilege to join with
Remarks to the Polish National
many of you in prayers for peace and free-
Alliance in Chicago, Illinois
dom and to lay a wreath at the memorial for
March 16, 1992
the martyr of Solidarity, Father Popieluszko.
How our prayers have been answered in
Well, thank you, Ed Moskal, very, very
those short years. It is unbelievable. Since
much, and all of you for this welcome. May
'88, the whole world has been transformed.
I salute our great Governor Jim Edgar, with
And that change really, if you look at your
me here today. I think I heard you greet him.
history, began in Poland. Poland overthrew
My respects to Ed Dykla, to the Bishop, to
that cruel tyranny that Stalin imposed after
delivered in
FDR
person
1-4-35
Annual Message
enjoyment and
today, in the light of our experience and our new national policy,
The sound use
we find we can put people to work in ways which conform to, ini-
a the mere plant-
tiate and carry forward the broad principles of that policy.
electricity or re-
The first objectives of emergency legislation of 1933 were to
t stranded popu-
relieve destitution, to make it possible for industry to operate in
not have security
a more rational and orderly fashion, and to put behind industrial
recovery the impulse of large expenditures in Government un-
is problem- the
dertakings. The purpose of the National Industrial Recovery Act
ation, in accord-
to provide work for more people succeeded in a substantial man-
ans of livelihood
ner within the first few months of its life, and the Act has con-
utting people to
tinued to maintain employment gains and greatly improved
mponent part of
working conditions in industry.
rough the better
The program of public works provided for in the Recovery
Act launched the Federal Government into a task for which there
nood is that of se-
was little time to make preparation and little American experi-
so, a comprehen-
ence to follow. Great employment has been given and is being
plished in many
given by these works.
he time has come
More than two billions of dollars have also been expended in
send to you, in a
direct relief to the destitute. Local agencies of necessity deter-
:se studies. These
mined the recipients of this form of relief. With inevitable excep-
of unemployment
tions the funds were spent by them with reasonable efficiency and
for children, for
as a result actual want of food and clothing in the great majority
re and for other
of cases has been overcome.
ning can now be
But the stark fact before us is that great numbers still remain
unemployed.
le has also been
A large proportion of these unemployed and their dependents
re, too, the first
have been forced on the relief rolls. The burden on the Federal
als which I shall
Government has grown with great rapidity. We have here a hu-
loyed.
man as well as an economic problem. When humane considera-
d be in the light
tions are concerned, Americans give them precedence. The les-
cannot afford to
sons of history, confirmed by the evidence immediately before
which cannot find
me, show conclusively that continued dependence upon relief in-
purposes. In that
duces a spiritual and moral disintegration fundamentally destruc-
by hard and in-
tive to the national fibre. To dole out relief in this way is to ad-
ople to work. In
minister a narcotic, a subtle destroyer of the human spirit. It is
d to stand apart;
inimical to the dictates of sound policy. It is in violation of the
19
Annual Message
traditions of America. Work must be found for able-bodied but
thi
fro
destitute workers.
The Federal Government must and shall quit this business of
con
the
relief.
I am not willing that the vitality of our people be further
on
sapped by the giving of cash, of market baskets, of a few hours of
ab
weekly work cutting grass, raking leaves or picking up papers in
the public parks. We must preserve not only the bodies of the
mail
unemployed from destitution but also their self-respect, their
ge
self-reliance and courage and determination. This decision brings
en
me to the problem of what the Government should do with ap-
proximately five million unemployed now on the relief rolls.
th
About one million and a half of these belong to the group
au
which in the past was dependent upon local welfare efforts. Most
of
of them are unable for one reason or another to maintain them-
cl
selves independently- for the most part, through no fault of
their own. Such people, in the days before the great depression,
b
were cared for by local efforts- by States, by counties, by towns,
by cities, by churches and by private welfare agencies. It is my
thought that in the future they must be cared for as they were
before. I stand ready through my own personal efforts, and
through the public influence of the office that I hold, to help these
local agencies to get the means necessary to assume this burden.
The security legislation which I shall propose to the Congress
will, I am confident, be of assistance to local effort in the care of
this type of cases. Local responsibility can and will be resumed,
for, after all, common sense tells us that the wealth necessary for
this task existed and still exists in the local community, and the
dictates of sound administration require that this responsibility
be in the first instance a local one.
There are, however, an additional three and one half million
employable people who are on relief. With them the problem is
different and the responsibility is different. This group was the
victim of a nation-wide depression caused by conditions which
were not local but national. The Federal Government is the only
governmental agency with sufficient power and credit to meet
20
DRAFT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
April , 1992
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT
I am pleased we have been able to provide the waivers
to their reform
needed for another chapter in Wisconsin's pioneering effort in
welfare reform.
welfare
system
In my State of the Union address this year, I said the
states are beginning to operate welfare programs with new
and
assumptions about the responsibilities to the taxpayer by those
who receive governmental assistance. Wisconsin's Parental and
help
Family Responsibility Demonstration Project shows how ideas of
people
responsibility can be put to work.
become
I also said we would help states obtain the waivers they
need to make reform work. I am pleased that Wisconsin's
More
request, which holds to the highest standards of rigorous
design and evaluation, could be approved in
days.
seg-
sufficial.
###
which are really
the best Whoratories of
Democracy
In Particular, Wiscousin's innovative
program
limits payments for
additional household children born into familier
and also rafune participation in
currently on the welfare volls
Comprehenning education and
employment related programs.
Weekly Compilation of
Presidential
Documents
Monday, February 3, 1992
Volume 28-Number 5
Pages 165-190
170
Jan. 27 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
Thank you very much for letting me pop
I see the Speaker and the Vice President
in.
are laughing. They saw what I did in Japan
and they're just happy they're sitting behind
Note: The President spoke at 2:05 p.m. in
me. [Laughter]
Room 450 of the Old Executive Office Build-
I mean to speak tonight of big things, of
ing. In his remarks, he referred to Bob Mar-
big changes and the promises they hold, and
tinez, Director of the Office of National Drug
of some big problems and how, together, we
Control Policy.
can solve them and move our country for-
ward as the undisputed leader of the age.
We gather tonight at a dramatic and deep-
ly promising time in our history and in the
Memorandum on Export-Import
history of man on Earth. For in the past 12
Bank Services for Latvia, Lithuania,
months, the world has known changes of al-
and Estonia
most Biblical proportions. And even now,
January 28, 1992
months after the failed coup that doomed a
failed system, I'm not sure we've absorbed
Presidential Determination No. 92-11
the full impact, the full import of, what hap-
Memorandum for the Secretary of State
pened. But communism died this year.
Even as President, with the most fas-
Subject: Presidential Determination under
cinating possible vantage point, there were
Subsection 2(b)(2)(D)(i) of the Export-
times when I was so busy managing progress
Import Bank Act of 1945, as Amended-
and helping to lead change that I didn't al-
Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia
ways show the joy that was in my heart. But
Pursuant to subsection 2(b)(2)(D)(i) of the
the biggest thing that has happened in the
Export-Import Bank Act of 1945, as amend-
world in my life, in our lives, is this: By the
ed (12 U.S.C. 635(b)(2)(D)(i)), I determine
grace of God, America won the cold war.
that it is in the national interest for the Ex-
I mean to speak this evening of the
port-Import Bank of the United States to
changes that can take place in our country,
guarantee, insure, extend credit, and partici-
now that we can stop making the sacrifices
pate in the extension of credit in connection
we had to make when we had an avowed
with the purchase or lease of any product
enemy that was a superpower. Now we can
by, for use in, or for sale or lease to Latvia,
look homeward even more and move to set
Lithuania, and Estonia.
right what needs to be set right.
You are authorized and directed to report
I will speak of those things. But let me
this determination to the Congress and to
tell you something I've been thinking these
publish it in the Federal Register.
past few months. It's a kind of rollcall of
honor. For the cold war didn't end; it was
George Bush
won. And I think of those who won it, in
places like Korea and Vietnam. And some
of them didn't come back. Back then they
were heroes, but this year they were victors.
Address Before a Joint Session of the
The long rollcall, all the G.I. Joes and
Congress on the State of the Union
Janes, all the ones who fought faithfully for
January 28, 1992
freedom, who hit the ground and sucked the
dust and knew their share of horror. This may
Mr. Speaker and Mr. President, distinguished
seem frivolous, and I don't mean it so, but
Members of Congress, honored guests, and
it's moving to me how the world saw them.
fellow citizens:
The world saw not only their special valor
Thank you very much for that warm recep-
but their special style: their rambunctious,
tion. You know, with the big buildup this ad-
optimistic bravery, their do-or-die unity un-
dress has had, I wanted to make sure it would
hampered by class or race or region. What
be a big hit, but I couldn't convince Barbara
a group we've put forth, for generations now,
to deliver it for me. [Laughter]
from the ones who wrote "Kilroy was here"
e Bush, 1992
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / Jan. 28
171
ice President
on the walls of the German stalags to those
strained. They trust us to be on the side of
did in Japan
who left signs in the Iraqi desert that said,
decency. They trust us to do what's right.
itting behind
'I saw Elvis." What a group of kids we've
I use those words advisedly. A few days
sent out into the world.
after the war began, I received a telegram
ig things, of
And there's another to be singled out,
from Joanne Speicher, the wife of the first
ey hold, and
though it may seem inelegant, and I mean
pilot killed in the Gulf, Lieutenant Com-
together, we
a mass of people called the American tax-
mander Scott Speicher. Even in her grief,
country for-
payer. No one ever thinks to thank the peo-
she wanted me to know that some day when
of the age.
ple who pay a country's bill or an alliance's
her children were old enough, she would tell
ic and deep-
bill. But for half a century now, the American
them "that their father went away to war be-
and in the
people have shouldered the burden and paid
cause it was the right thing to do." And she
the past 12
taxes that were higher than they would have
said it all: It was the right thing to do.
hanges of al-
been to support a defense that was bigger
And we did it together. There were honest
even now,
than it would have been if imperial com-
differences right here in this Chamber. But
it doomed a
munism had never existed. But it did; doesn't
when the war began, you put partisanship
ve absorbed
anymore. And here's a fact I wouldn't mind
aside, and we supported our troops. This is
f, what hap-
the world acknowledging: The American tax-
still a time for pride, but this is no time to
year.
payer bore the brunt of the burden and de-
boast. For problems face us, and we must
most fas-
serves a hunk of the glory.
stand together once again and solve them and
there were
And so now, for the first time in 35 years,
not let our country down.
ing progress
I didn't al-
our strategic bombers stand down. No longer
Two years ago, I began planning cuts in
y heart. But
are they on 'round-the-clock alert. Tomorrow
military spending that reflected the changes
our children will go to school and study his-
of the new era. But now, this year, with impe-
ened in the
tory and how plants grow. And they won't
rial communism gone, that process can be
this: By the
have, as my children did, air raid drills in
accelerated. Tonight I can tell you of dra-
Id war.
matic changes in our strategic nuclear force.
ing of the
which they crawl under their desks and cover
These are actions we are taking on our own
their heads in case of nuclear war. My grand-
ur country,
because they are the right thing to do. After
children don't have to do that and won't have
e sacrifices
completing 20 planes for which we have
an avowed
the bad dreams children had once, in dec-
begun procurement, we will shut down fur-
How we can
ades past. There are still threats. But the
ther production of the B-2 bombers. We will
nove to set
long, drawn-out dread is over.
cancel the small ICBM program. We will
A year ago tonight, I spoke to you at a
cease production of new warheads for our
But let me
moment of high peril. American forces had
sea-based ballistic missiles. We will stop all
iking these
just unleashed Operation Desert Storm. And
new production of the Peacekeeper missile.
rollcall of
after 40 days in the desert skies and 4 days
And we will not purchase any more advanced
end; it was
on the ground, the men and women of Amer-
cruise missiles.
won it, in
ica's Armed Forces and our allies accom-
This weekend I will meet at Camp David
And some
plished the goals that I declared and that you
with Boris Yeltsin of the Russian Federation.
then they
endorsed: We liberated Kuwait. Soon after,
I've informed President Yeltsin that if the
ere victors.
the Arab world and Israel sat down to talk
Commonwealth, the former Soviet Union,
Joes and
seriously and comprehensively about peace,
will eliminate all land-based multiple-war-
ithfully for
an historic first. And soon after that, at
head ballistic missiles, I will do the following:
sucked the
Christmas, the last American hostages came
We will eliminate all Peacekeeper missiles.
C. This may
home. Our policies were vindicated.
We will reduce the number of warheads on
it so, but
Much good can come from the prudent
Minuteman missiles to one and reduce the
saw them.
use of power. And much good can come of
number of warheads on our sea-based mis-
ecial valor
this: A world once divided into two armed
siles by about one-third. And we will convert
bunctious,
camps now recognizes one sole and pre-
a substantial portion of our strategic bombers
unity un-
eminent power, the United States of Amer-
to primarily conventional use. President
ion. What
ica. And they regard this with no dread. For
Yeltsin's early response has been very posi-
tions now,
the world trusts us with power, and the world
tive, and I expect our talks at Camp David
was here"
is right. They trust us to be fair and re-
to be fruitful.
172
Jan. 28 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
I want you to know that for half a century,
know we're in hard times. But I know some-
American Presidents have longed to make
thing else: This will not stand.
such decisions and say such words. But even
In this Chamber, in this Chamber we can
in the midst of celebration, we must keep
bring the same courage and sense of com-
caution as a friend. For the world is still a
mon purpose to the economy that we
dangerous place. Only the dead have seen
brought to Desert Storm. And we can defeat
the end of conflict. And though yesterday's
hard times together. I believe you'll help.
challenges are behind us, tomorrow's are
One reason is that you're patriots, and you
being born.
want the best for your country. And I believe
The Secretary of Defense recommended
that in your hearts you want to put par-
these cuts after consultation with the Joint
tisanship aside and get the job done because
Chiefs of Staff. And I make them with con-
it's the right thing to do.
fidence. But do not misunderstand me: The
The power of America rests in a stirring
reductions I have approved will save us an
but simple idea, that people will do great
additional $50 billion over the next 5 years.
things if only you set them free. Well, we're
By 1997, we will have cut defense by 30 per-
going to set the economy free. For if this
cent since I took office. These cuts are deep,
age of miracles and wonders has taught us
and you must know my resolve: This deep,
anything, it's that if we can change the world
and no deeper. To do less would be insen-
we can change America. We must encourage
sible to progress, but to do more would be
investment. We must make it easier for peo-
ignorant of history. We must not go back to
ple to invest money and create new products,
the days of "the hollow army." We cannot
new industries, and new jobs. We must clear
repeat the mistakes made twice in this cen-
away the obstacles to growth: High taxes,
tury when armistice was followed by reckless-
high regulation, redtape, and yes, wasteful
ness and defense was purged as if the world
Government spending.
were permanently safe.
None of this will happen with a snap of
I remind you this evening that I have asked
the fingers, but it will happen. And the test
for your support in funding a program to pro-
of a plan isn't whether it's called new or daz-
tect our country from limited nuclear missile
zling. The American people aren't impressed
attack. We must have this protection because
by gimmicks; they're smarter on this score
too many people in too many countries have
than all of us in this room. The only test of
access to nuclear arms. And I urge you again
a plan is: Is it sound, and will it work?
to pass the Strategic Defense Initiative, SDI.
We must have a short-term plan to address
There are those who say that now we can
our immediate needs and heat up the econ-
turn away from the world, that we have no
omy. And then we need a longer term plan
special role, no special place. But we are the
to keep combustion going and to guarantee
United States of America, the leader of the
our place in the world economy. There are
West that has become the leader of the
certain things that a President can do without
world. And as long as I am President, I will
Congress, and I'm going to do them.
continue to lead in support of freedom every-
I have, this evening, asked major Cabinet
where, not out of arrogance, not out of altru-
departments and Federal agencies to insti-
ism, but for the safety and security of our
tute a 90-day moratorium on any new Fed-
children. This is a fact: Strength in the pur-
eral regulations that could hinder growth. In
suit of peace is no vice; isolationism in the
those 90 days, major departments and agen-
pursuit of security is no virtue.
cies will carry out a top-to-bottom review of
And now to our troubles at home. They're
all regulations, old and new, to stop the ones
not all economic; the primary problem is our
that will hurt growth and speed up those that
economy. There are some good signs. Infla-
will help growth.
tion, that thief, is down. And interest rates
Further, for the untold number of hard-
are down. But unemployment is too high,
working, responsible American workers and
some industries are in trouble, and growth
business men and women who've been
is not what it should be. Let me tell you right
forced to go without needed bank loans, the
from the start and right from the heart, I
banking credit crunch must end. I won't ne-
'e Bush, 1992
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / Jan. 28
173
know some-
glect my responsibility for sound regulations
$5,000 tax credit for the first purchase of that
amber we can
that serve the public good, but regulatory
home.
ense of com-
overkill must be stopped. And I've instructed
And finally, my immediate plan calls on
my that we
our Government regulators to stop it.
Congress to give crucial help to people who
we can defeat
I have directed Cabinet departments and
own a home, to everyone who has a business
you'll help.
Federal agencies to speed up progrowth ex-
or a farm or a single investment. This time,
iots, and you
penditures as quickly as possible. This should
at this hour, I cannot take no for an answer.
And I believe
put an extra $10 billion into the economy
You must cut the capital gains tax on the peo-
in the next 6 months. And our new transpor-
to put par-
ple of our country. Never has an issue been
done because
tation bill provides more than $150 billion
more demagogued by its opponents. But the
for construction and maintenance projects
demagogs are wrong. They are wrong, and
in a stirring
that are vital to our growth and well-being.
they know it. Sixty percent of the people who
will do great
And that means jobs building roads, jobs
benefit from lower capital gains have in-
?. Well, we're
building bridges, and jobs building railways.
comes under $50,000. A cut in the capital
e. For if this
And I have, this evening, directed the Sec-
gains tax increases jobs and helps just about
has taught us
retary of the Treasury to change the Federal
everyone in our country. And so, I'm asking
nge the world
tax withholding tables. With this change, mil-
you to cut the capital gains tax to a maximum
lions of Americans from whom the Govern-
ust encourage
of 15.4 percent.
asier for peo-
ment withholds more than necessary can now
choose to have the Government withhold less
And I'll tell you, those of you who say, "Oh,
new products,
no, someone who's comfortable may benefit
Ve must clear
from their paychecks. Something tells me a
High taxes,
number of taxpayers may take us up on this
from that," you kind of remind me of the
old definition of the Puritan who couldn't
one. This initiative could return about $25
yes, wasteful
billion back into our economy over the next
sleep at night, worrying that somehow, some-
12 months, money people can use to help
one somewhere was out having a good time.
ith a snap of
And the test
pay for clothing, college, or to get a new car.
[Laughter] The opponents of this measure
and those who have authored various so-
d new or daz-
Finally, working with the Federal Reserve,
n't impressed
we will continue to support monetary policy
called soak-the-rich bills that are floating
around this Chamber should be reminded of
on this score
that keeps both interest rates and inflation
e only test of
down.
something: When they aim at the big guy,
Now, these are the things I can do. And
they usually hit the little guy. And maybe it's
vork?
lan to address
now, Members of Congress, let me tell you
time that stopped.
up the econ-
what you can do for your country. You must
This, then, is my short-term plan. Your
ger term plan
pass the other elements of my plan to meet
part, Members of Congress, requires enact-
our economic needs. Everyone knows that
ment of these commonsense proposals that
to guarantee
investment spurs recovery. I am proposing
will have a strong effect on the economy
ny. There are
this evening a change in the alternative mini-
without breaking the budget agreement and
an do without
hem.
mum tax and the creation of a new 15-per-
without raising tax rates.
najor Cabinet
cent investment tax allowance. This will en-
While my plan is being passed and kicking
ncies to insti-
courage businesses to accelerate investment
in, we've got to care for those in trouble
any new Fed-
and bring people back to work.
today. I have provided for up to $4.4 billion
Real estate has led our economy out of
in my budget to extend Federal unemploy-
ler growth. In
nts and agen-
almost all the tough times we've ever had.
ment benefits. And I ask for congressional
tom review of
Once building starts, carpenters and plumb-
action right away. And I thank the commit-
ers work; people buy homes and take out
tee. Well, at last.
stop the ones
up those that
mortgages. My plan would modify the passive
And let's be frank. Let's be frank. Let me
loss rule for active real estate developers.
level with you. I know and you know that
nber of hard-
And it would make it easier for pension plans
my plan is unveiled in a political season.
1 workers and
to purchase real estate. For those Americans
[Laughter] I know and you know that every-
who've been
who dream of buying a first home but who
thing I propose will be viewed by some in
ank loans, the
can't quite afford it, my plan would allow
merely partisan terms. But I ask you to know
id. I won't ne-
first-time homebuyers to withdraw savings
what is in my heart. And my aim is to increase
from IRA's without penalty and provide a
our Nation's good. I'm doing what I think
174
Jan. 28 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
is right, and I am proposing what I know
parents more choice, give teachers more
A
will help.
flexibility, and help communities create new
I pride myself that I'm a prudent man, and
American schools. Thirty States across the
I believe that patience is a virtue. But I un-
Nation have established America 2000 pro-
derstand that politics is, for some, a game
grams. Hundreds of cities and towns have
sì
and that sometimes the game is to stop all
joined in. Now Congress must join this great
in
progress and then decry the lack of improve-
movement: Pass my proposals for new Amer-
th
ment. [Laughter] But let me tell you: Far
ican schools.
fe
more important than my political future and
That was my second long-term proposal,
of
far more important than yours is the well-
and here's my third: We must make com-
he
being of our country. Members of this Cham-
monsense investments that will help us com-
ber are practical people, and I know you
pete, long-term, in the marketplace. We
te
won't resent some practical advice. When
must encourage research and development.
d,
people put their party's fortunes, whatever
My plan is to make the R&D tax credit per-
is
the party, whatever side of this aisle, before
manent and to provide record levels of sup-
jol
the public good, they court defeat not only
port, over $76 billion this year alone, for peo-
G
for their country but for themselves. And
ple who will explore the promise of emerging
they will certainly deserve it.
technologies.
car
I submit my plan tomorrow, and I'm ask-
Fourth, we must do something about
ter
ing you to pass it by March 20th. And I ask
crime and drugs. It is time for a major, re-
the American people to let you know they
newed investment in fighting violent street
want this action by March 20th. From the
crime. It saps our strength and hurts our faith
is
day after that, if it must be, the battle is
in our society and in our future together.
and
joined. And you know, when principle is at
Surely a tired woman on her way to work
for
stake I relish a good, fair fight.
at 6 in the morning on a subway deserves
I said my plan has two parts, and it does.
the right to get there safely. And surely it's
And it's the second part that is the heart of
true that everyone who changes his or her
the matter. For it's not enough to get an im-
life because of crime, from those afraid to
prc
mediate burst. We need long-term improve-
go out at night to those afraid to walk in the
wh
ment in our economic position. We all know
parks they pay for, surely these people have
chc
that the key to our economic future is to en-
been denied a basic civil right.
for
sure that America continues as an economic
It is time to restore it. Congress, pass my
COV
leader of the world. We have that in our
comprehensive crime bill. It is tough on
insu
power. Here, then, is my long-term plan to
criminals and supportive of police, and it has
low
guarantee our future.
been languishing in these hallowed halls for
hel₁
First, trade: We will work to break down
years now. Pass it. Help your country.
anc
the walls that stop world trade. We will work
And fifth, I ask you tonight to fund our
will
to open markets everywhere. And in our
HOPE housing proposal and to pass my en-
eve
major trade negotiations, I will continue
terprise zone legislation which will get busi-
heal
pushing to eliminate tariffs and subsidies that
nesses into the inner city. We must empower
con
the poor with the pride that comes from own-
and
damage America's farmers and workers. And
we'll get more good American jobs within our
ing a home, getting a job, becoming a part
abo
of things. My plan would encourage real es-
of
own hemisphere through the North Amer-
ican free trade agreement and through the
tate construction by extending tax incentives
that
for mortgage revenue bonds and low-income
A
Enterprise for the Americas Initiative.
But changes are here, and more are com-
housing. And I ask tonight for record expend-
icit
ing. The workplace of the future will demand
itures for the program that helps children
fore
more highly skilled workers than ever, more
born into want move into excellence, Head
that
The
people who are computer-literate, highly
Start.
educated. We must be the world's leader in
Step six, we must reform our health care
that
education. And we must revolutionize Ameri-
system. For this, too, bears on whether or
do it
ca's schools. My America 2000 strategy will
not we can compete in the world. American
M
help us reach that goal. My plan will give
health costs have been exploding. This year
tiona
Bush, 1992
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / Jan. 28
175
:hers more
America will spend over $800 billion on
more next year than this year. I will not tam-
create new
health, and that is expected to grow to 1.6
per with Social Security, but I would put real
across the
trillion by the end of the decade. We simply
caps on the growth of uncontrolled spending.
1 2000 pro-
cannot afford this. The cost of health care
And I would also freeze Federal domestic
towns have
shows up not only in your family budget but
Government employment. And with the help
n this great
in the price of everything we buy and every-
of Congress, my plan will get rid of 246 pro-
new Amer-
thing we sell. When health coverage for a
grams that don't deserve Federal funding.
fellow on an assembly line costs thousands
Some of them have noble titles, but none
n proposal,
of dollars, the cost goes into the products
of them is indispensable. We can get rid of
make com-
he makes, and you pay the bill.
each and every one of them.
elp us com-
We must make a choice. Now, some pre-
You know, it's time we rediscovered a
place. We
tend we can have it both ways. They call it
home truth the American people have never
velopment.
"play or pay," but that expensive approach
forgotten: This Government is too big and
credit per-
is unstable. It will mean higher taxes, fewer
spends too much. And I call upon Congress
vels of sup-
jobs, and eventually a system under complete
to adopt a measure that will help put an end
ne, for peo-
Government control.
to the annual ritual of filling the budget with
of emerging
Really, there are only two options. And we
pork-barrel appropriations. Every year, the
can move toward a nationalized system, a sys-
press has a field day making fun of out-
ning about
tem which will restrict patient choice in pick-
rageous examples: A Lawrence Welk mu-
major, re-
ing a doctor and force the Government to
seum, research grants for Belgian endive. We
blent street
ration services arbitrarily. And what we'll get
all know how these things get into the budg-
its our faith
is patients in long lines, indifferent service,
et, and maybe you need someone to help you
e together.
and a huge new tax burden. Or we can re-
say no. I know how to say it, and I know
ay to work
form our own private health care system,
what I need to make it stick. Give me the
y deserves
which still gives us, for all its flaws, the best
same thing 43 Governors have, the line-item
1 surely it's
quality health care in the world.
veto, and let me help you control spending.
his or her
Well, let's build on our strengths. My plan
We must put an end to unfinanced Federal
e afraid to
provides insurance security for all Americans
Government mandates. These are the re-
walk in the
while preserving and increasing the idea of
quirements Congress puts on our cities,
eople have
choice. We make basic health insurance af-
counties, and States without supplying the
fordable for all low-income people not now
money. If Congress passes a mandate, it
SS, pass my
covered, and we do it by providing a health
should be forced to pay for it and balance
tough on
insurance tax credit of up to $3,750 for each
the cost with savings elsewhere. After all, a
and it has
low-income family. And the middle class gets
mandate just increases someone else's bur-
d halls for
help, too. And by reforming the health insur-
den, and that means higher taxes at the State
try.
ance market, my plan assures that Americans
and local level.
0 fund our
will have access to basic health insurance
Step eight, Congress should enact the bold
ass my en-
even if they change jobs or develop serious
reform proposals that are still awaiting con-
II get busi-
health problems. We must bring costs under
gressional action: Bank reform, civil justice
t empower
control, preserve quality, preserve choice,
reform, tort reform, and my national energy
from own-
and reduce the people's nagging daily worry
strategy.
ing a part
about health insurance. My plan, the details
And finally, we must strengthen the family
ge real es-
of which I'll announce very shortly, does just
because it is the family that has the greatest
incentives
that.
bearing on our future. When Barbara holds
ow-income
And seventh, we must get the Federal def-
an AIDS baby in her arms and reads to chil-
rd expend-
icit under control. We now have, in law, en-
dren, she's saying to every person in this
S children
forceable spending caps and a requirement
country: Family matters.
nce, Head
that we pay for. the programs we create.
And I am announcing tonight a new Com-
There are those in Congress who would ease
mission on America's Urban Families. I've
health care
that discipline now. But I cannot let them
asked Missouri's Governor John Ashcroft to
vhether or
do it, and I won't.
be Chairman, former Dallas Mayor Annette
American
My plan would freeze all domestic discre-
Strauss to be Cochair. You know, I had may-
This year
tionary budget authority, which means no
ors, the leading mayors from the League of
176
Jan. 28 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
Cities, in the other day at the White House,
And I want to add, as we make these
and they told me something striking. They
changes, we work together to improve thi
said that every one of them, Republican or
system, that our intention is not scapegoating
Democrat, agreed on one thing, that the
or finger-pointing. If you read the papers and
major cause of the problems of the cities is
watch TV, you know there's been a rise these
the dissolution of the family. They asked for
days in a certain kind of ugliness: racist com-
this Commission, and they were right to ask
ments, anti-Semitism, an increased sense of
because it's time to determine what we can
division. Really, this is not us. This is not who
do to keep families together, strong and
we are. And this is not acceptable.
sound.
And so, you have my plan for America.
There's one thing we can do right away:
And I'm asking for big things, but I believe
Ease the burden of rearing a child. I ask you
in my heart you'll do what's right.
tonight to raise the personal exemption by
And you know, it's kind of an American
$500 per child for every family. For a family
with four kids, that's an increase of $2,000.
tradition to show a certain skepticism toward
This is a good start in the right direction,
our democratic institutions. I myself have
and it's what we can afford.
sometimes thought the aging process could
It's time to allow families to deduct the
be delayed if it had to make its way through
interest they pay on student loans. I am ask-
Congress. [Laughter] You will deliberate,
ing you to do just that. And I'm asking you
and you will discuss, and that is fine. But,
to allow people to use money from their
my friends, the people cannot wait. They
IRA's to pay medical and education expenses,
need help now.
all without penalties.
And there's a mood among us. People are
And I'm asking for more. Ask American
worried. There's been talk of decline. Some-
parents what they dislike about how things
one even said our workers are lazy and
are going in our country, and chances are
uninspired. And I thought: Really? You go
good that pretty soon they'll get to welfare.
tell Neil Armstrong standing on the moon.
Americans are the most generous people on
Tell the men and women who put him there.
Earth. But we have to go back to the insight
Tell the American farmer who feeds his
of Franklin Roosevelt who, when he spoke
country and the world. Tell the men and
of what became the welfare program, warned
women of Desert Storm.
that it must not become "a narcotic" and a
Moods come and go, but greatness en-
"subtle destroyer" of the spirit. Welfare was
dures. Ours does. And maybe for a moment
never meant to be a lifestyle. It was never
it's good to remember what, in the dailiness
meant to be a habit. It was never supposed
of our lives, we forget: We are still and ever
to be passed from generation to generation
the freest nation on Earth, the kindest nation
like a legacy. It's time to replace the assump-
on Earth, the strongest nation on Earth. And
tions of the welfare state and help reform
we have always risen to the occasion. And
the welfare system.
we are going to lift this Nation out of hard
States throughout the country are begin-
times inch by inch and day by day, and those
ning to operate with new assumptions that
who would stop us had better step aside. Be-
when able-bodied people receive Govern-
cause I look at hard times, and I make this
ment assistance, they have responsibilities to
vow: This will not stand.
the taxpayer: A responsibility to seek work,
And so, we move on together, a rising na-
education, or job training; a responsibility to
tion, the once and future miracle that is still,
get their lives in order; a responsibility to
this night, the hope of the world. Thank you.
hold their families together and refrain from
God bless you, and God bless our beloved
having children out of wedlock; and a respon-
country. Thank you very. very much.
sibility to obey the law. We are going to help
this movement. Often, State reform requires
Note: The President spoke at 9:07 p.m. in
waiving certain Federal regulations. I will act
the House Chamber of the Capitol. The ad-
to make that process easier and quicker for
dress was broadcast live on nationwide radio
every State that asks for our help.
and television.
Weekly Compilation of
Presidential
Documents
Monday, March 2, 1992
Volume 28-Number 9
Pages 317-373
111 RESEARCH
4
pres Documents
334
f George Bush, 1992
At the end of December 1991 Ambassador
Message to the Congress
Ledsky prepared for his new consultation
Transmitting the Annual Report on
mission to the Eastern Mediterranean. His
Alaska's Mineral Resources
mission began on January 7, 1992, and will
February 25, 1992
be the initial item in my next bimonthly re-
port.
To the Congress of the United States:
I transmit herewith the 1991 Annual Re-
Like U.N. Secretary General Perez de
Cuellar, I am disappointed that cir-
port on Alaska's Mineral Resources, pursuant
to section 1011 of the Alaska National Inter-
cumstances did not allow the Cyprus issue
est Lands Conservation Act (Public Law 96-
to be resolved in 1991. I would like to take
487; 16 U.S.C. 3151). This report, containing
this opportunity to add my personal thanks
pertinent public information relating to min-
to Secretary General Perez de Cuellar for
erals in Alaska, as gathered by the U.S. Geo-
his tireless efforts over many years and share
logical Survey, the Bureau of Mines, and
with him the sentiment he expressed in the
other Federal agencies. This report is signifi-
final line of his final report on Cyprus:
cant because of the importance of the min-
the long overdue solution can be reached and
eral and energy resources of Alaska to the
the two communities can live together in Cy-
future well-being of the Nation.
prus in harmony, security, and prosperity."
George Bush
Sincerely,
The White House,
George Bush
February 25, 1992.
Note: Identical letters were sent to Thomas
S. Foley, Speaker of the House of Rep-
Remarks at a Bush-Quayle
resentatives, and Claiborne Pell, chairman of
Fundraising Dinner in Los Angeles,
the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.
California
February 25, 1992
Thank you all very, very much. And what
a pleasure it is to be here with Pete Wilson,
Letter to Congressional Leaders
to be introduced by this man who is doing
Transmitting a Report on
so much for the State. And thank you for
International Agreements
heading our campaign and being at our side
February 25, 1992
today. It is a pleasure to see you and Gayle.
May I thank our master of ceremonies, John-
Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Chairman:)
ny Grant; say to the next team, Rabbi Green-
Pursuant to subsection (b) of the Case-Za-
baum and Cheryl Ladd, who did a great job
blocki Act (1 U.S.C. section 112(b)), I trans-
on the pledge without missing a beat; and
Bobby Britt who did the national anthem.
mit herewith a report prepared by the De-
partment of State concerning international
And thanks to everyone who has organized
this extraordinary gathering. What did you
agreements.
do? Tell these folks that they had moved the
Sincerely,
Academy Awards to tonight, I think, when
we look around back here. And I'm very
George Bush
grateful.
And let me just say it's also a great pleasure
4
Note: Identical letters were sent to Thomas
to see Don Bren, who is one of our national
b
S. Foley, Speaker of the House of Rep-
cochairmen, and Lod Cook, another one.
resentatives, and Claiborne Pell, chairman of
And thanks to both of you for making this
the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.
a highly successful event. Greetings also to
p
Bobby Holt, who is our national finance
P
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / Feb. 25
335
chairman; former Secretary Bob Mosbacher,
instead of working on my plan, the House
who did a superb job as our Secretary of
Democrats surfaced their own. And true to
Commerce, who is the chairman of our cam-
form, it is a temporary tax cut in exchange
paign; and all the other Bush-Quayle vice
for a permanent tax hike. And that tax cut
chairmen here tonight.
works out to 25 cents per person. Sounds
What an amazing crowd and what enthu-
big in a package for the consumption in the
siasm. And you all make me feel so young,
political arena, but that's what it makes, 25
especially Bob Hope. [Laughter] You know,
cents per person. And to make it permanent
Bob told you only half the story. That story
the Democrats would have to jack up the
he told was true about Desert Storm. He
income tax rate for every American making
went over there, but what he forgot to tell
more than $35,000 a year, $35,000. For a
you because of his modesty is I got more
plan that is supposed to help the middle
reports back from Norm Schwarzkopf and
class, that's going to come as real news to
from Powell and from all of them about the
a lot of factory workers and schoolteachers
lift that gave to those kids, many of whom
and everyday Americans struggling to make
had been months sitting out in the desert.
ends meet.
And we're very, very grateful to him.
So let's face it, the Democrats are going
And I'm touched, to paraphrase John Ken-
to tax the middle class for the same reason
nedy, I'm touched by your warm response,
that Willie Sutton robbed banks, because
but not half as touched as all of you have
been. This has been a big success.
that's where the money is. They say they're
Let me start tonight by sharing my concern
going to hit the rich, and they end up hitting
for all the many southern Californians who
the small guy.
have been ravaged by the record floods here.
Now, my economic plan is built on seven
And I'm pleased to say that today, on Air
specific proposals to stimulate this tired
Force One, I signed a declaration to provide
economy. And if you want to give American
much-needed disaster relief to flood victims.
companies a reason to expand, then give
You're hurting, and we'll get you help. And
them-and this can be done in the remaining
the Governor promptly moved on that for
days-my investment tax allowance. Speed
the State.
up depreciation. And if you really want to
I want to talk tonight about some of the
do something about boosting the sagging
challenges that we face, about the decisions
housing market and if you want to give Amer-
that will make this election year, that really
ican families a shot at the American dream,
are going to chart this country's history for
then give those first-time homebuyers what
the next 5 years. And let me say it straight:
my plan does, a $5,000 tax credit toward that
What Government can do and what it can't
first home. Give those young families a
do, and what I will do as President, and then
chance.
where I'll need your help.
And finally, let me say this to the Congress:
Let's start with the number one issue on
If you are serious about competitiveness and
everyone's mind, and that is the economy.
if you are serious about creating the jobs,
One month ago, as Pete said, in that State
then cut the tax on capital gains and stimulate
of the Union, I laid out a two-part economic
investment.
action plan: for the short term, a plan to get
That's not the only fight I've got with the
this economy moving as early as this spring,
Capitol Hill crowd. Take a look at national
and then a longer term plan to keep America
defense. And it is important to remind our-
competitive in the next century. And I asked
selves that 365 days ago to this very minute
the Democrats who control the Congress to
we were starting that flanking movement
act for the good of the country, to lay politics
around the Iraqi army in the sands. And a
aside. And I gave Congress those 52 days to
few months before that, nobody dreamed
pass my plan.
we'd be faced with that kind of aggression.
And since then, some Democrats have
For decades, we faced a dangerous enemy
been wrestling with their consciences. It's
abroad. And we fought those at home who
still too early to predict who will win. But
would have stripped this Nation of the
336
Feb. 25 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
strength that it needed to defend itself, those
cuts would touch off in the construction and
that always wanted to cut defense.
in the electronics and aerospace industries
Republicans fought hard on both fronts.
and the aftershock for the real estate mar-
And winning the defense battle on Capitol
kets. Think of the workers, the welders to
Hill helped us win the cold war. And no one
the engineers, thrown out of work and onto
understood that better than my predecessor,
welfare. For the sake of national security and
Ronald Reagan. He stood for a strong de-
for the sake of just plain economic common
fense and stood up for our principles. And
sense and for the sake of this State and the
now, with the collapse of the Soviet Union,
country, I ask you to draw the line and say
imperial communism as we know it gone, we
no to those who want to recklessly gut the
can reduce defense spending substantially.
national defense of this country.
I sat down with the Joint Chiefs and Chair-
We can turn this economy around pro-
man Powell and the Secretary of Defense,
vided we deal in economic reality. And it all
and we worked out a sensible defense build-
comes down to this: To succeed economically
down. We're talking about $50 billion more
at home, we've got to lead economically
cut. One that will recognize post-cold-war re-
abroad. And there's no better case in point
alities, but still leave this country with the
than California. This State accounts for $1
muscle that we need to meet whatever dan-
in every $7 of American exports. In 1990
ger comes our way.
alone, two-way trade reached nearly $166 bil-
I know that's a concern here in southern
lion. Statewide, that means 725,000 jobs,
California, with its proud tradition of pushing
close to three-quarters of a million jobs tied
the frontier in aerospace and producing
to trade.
weapon systems that redefined state-of-the-
And it's more true than ever before today
art. We have a number of Federal programs
aimed now, as we cut down on defense
that America's future lies in opening markets.
spending, at helping those workers, those
But our opponents aren't about to let fact
good workers, those defense industry work-
intrude on fantasy. Their prescription for the
nineties is to sound an economic retreat and
ers as they seek new careers. And we're tak-
raise the trade barriers and build new barri-
ing steps to ease the transition that many
firms will face as they shift from defense-
cades to keep imports out and take this coun-
related work to the commercial economy.
try back to the dangerous pre-World War II
And that's what my technology transfer ini-
isolationism. I am not going to let that hap-
tiative is all about, getting research done in
pen as long as I am President of the United
Government labs out into the private econ-
States. We are going to stay engaged and lead
omy. And in May we're going to bring that
the world.
message to Cal Tech through our national
That is not the American way. And we
technology initiative. Our approach is the
don't cut and run; we compete. And I'll put
sensible way to go, the right way to keep the
my faith in the American worker. So clear
economy sound and at the same time keep
away the trade barriers, go head-to-head, and
our Nation strong and safe.
the American worker will outthink and out-
But there are Democrats with a very dif-
perform and outproduce anybody, anyplace,
ferent plan in mind. And they want to use
anytime.
the end of the cold war to open a bidding
People here want to know that increased
war to see who can gut defense the fastest.
trade doesn't mean a tradeoff when it comes
And one scheme would cut defense by an
to concerns about our environment. And ear-
additional $200 billion. And nationwide, cuts
lier this afternoon we had a wonderful meet-
on that scale would wipe out hundreds of
ing. I announced the new initiative to ensure
thousands of jobs, to say nothing about ren-
that the promise of free trade includes pro-
dering us incapable of responding to aggres-
tection for the environment. And we're work-
sion overseas.
ing with the Government of Mexico. And we
Right now, $1 out of every $5 spent on
will commit well over $1 billion in new re-
defense is spent right here in California. And
sources over the next 3 years to protect drink-
think of the shockwaves that reckless defense
ing water, pay for cleanups, and enforce haz-
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / Feb. 25
337
Hardous waste laws along the U.S.-Mexican
Let's test our kids to see where we're doing
border.
well and where we need more work. And our
And I can say to the people of this great
schools need a dose of competition with each
State: Here's proof that we can sustain a
other. Right now in public schools in Los An-
strong economy and a sound environment.
geles and across the country, kids are a cap-
Whether it's the environment, the economy,
tive audience. Now, give parents a chance
or any other issue, there's a new reality now
to choose their children's schools, and you'll
in the way people live and work and look
see our schools start doing their homework.
at Government. People don't really buy the
School choice is right, and it is working in
old, big Government rhetoric. They've seen
many States. School choice will work across
enough social engineering. And they know
this Nation.
America's greatness doesn't spring from Gov-
And because we believe in responsibility
ernment. Our strengths are in our people,
in our families, in our communities. And
we back legal reform. Sorry to say this in
Government can't raise your kids to know
"L.A. Law" country, but here's the plain fact.
America has become the land of the lawsuit.
right from wrong. It can't legislate happy
endings. Government isn't why people work
And we put forward a plan to cut down the
hard, raise a family, save for retirement.
number of frivolous suits. They sap our econ-
Year after year, the folks who control the
omy, and they strain our patience. And when
Congress have pushed spending higher and
a father can't coach Little League because
higher. In 1993, the Federal Government
he's worried about getting sued, something's
will spend $1.5 trillion of taxpayers' money.
wrong. And when your neighbor becomes a
And people are entitled to ask, "Am I getting
plaintiff, something's wrong. Our country
my $1.5 trillion's worth?" We need to get
would be a lot better off if we spent as much
back to the basics. Government is too big,
time helping each other as we do suing each
and it spends too much. So give me the line-
other. And so I will challenge the Congress
item veto, and let the executive branch try
again and again to do something about the
to cut some of the fat out of the budget.
reforms that we have pending up there on
Forty-three Governors have it, and 43 Gov-
Capitol Hill right now.
ernors do a good job utilizing it. We need
Because we believe in responsibility, we
for Government to do less but do better and
take a hard line on crime and drugs. Tomor-
to focus on what people want and deserve,
row Barbara and I fly down to San Antonio,
safe streets, good schools, a strong economy,
and there I'll meet with five Presidents of
and a strong country.
Latin American countries, Latin American
And today we see the return of responsibil-
leaders, work with them to sharpen our strat-
ity, an old idea that never really went out
egy to beat this scourge. And yes, we're wag-
of style. People have had it with the no-fault
ing a war to cut the supply lines that funnel
lifestyle. And in their private lives they know
drugs into the crack houses that plague good
actions have consequences. And what they
neighborhoods across L.A. County. Intercep-
want is a Government whose policies and
tion of drugs coming in is way, way up.
programs recognize that people are respon-
But we're battling, also, on the demand
sible for their actions and that Government
side. And we set a goal to drive down current
is responsible to the people. And if you think
adolescent cocaine use by 30 percent. And
about it, that's nothing more than a working
we've seen a dramatic 60-percent decrease.
definition of freedom.
Now, that's good news. But we all know we
Because we believe in responsibility, we
can't claim victory yet. We must show that
believe in education reform. And we've laid
here, too, actions have consequences. And
out a strategy called America 2000. It literally
that's why we need stiffer sentences for drug
revolutionizes our schools. Doing it the old
dealers. We need courts that punish crimi-
way isn't good enough anymore. And we
nals, not honest cops, out there trying to do
need to hold our kids and our teachers to
their jobs. We need laws that make life
a higher standard. And here's a radical no-
tougher on the criminals than on the victims
tion, as our national education plan calls for:
of crime. And we need to get that House
338
Feb. 25 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
of Representatives to pass my crime bill and
Note: The President spoke at 8:58 p.m.
pass it now.
the Century Plaza Hotel. A tape was not
Because we believe in responsibility, we
available for verification of the content of
believe in welfare reform. And people are
these remarks.
willing to support benefits. Look, we care.
We're Americans. We care about the other
guy. But Americans want to see some con-
nection between welfare and work. They
Exchange With Reporters Prior to a
want to see governments at every level work
Meeting With President Alberto
together to track down the deadbeat fathers,
Kenyo Fujimori of Peru in San
those who can't be bothered to pay child sup-
Antonio, Texas
port. And they want to see us break the cycle
February 26, 1992
of dependency that destroys dignity and
passes down poverty from one generation to
Drug Summit
the next. That's wrong to do that, and we're
going to do something to change it.
Q. Mr. President, what do you hope to
Right here in California, your able Gov-
accomplish at the drug summit, sir?
ernor Pete Wilson's got a plan that will en-
President Bush. Well, I think we've al-
courage people on welfare to take work when
ready-we're going to build on the first
they can find it; for pregnant teens or parents
meeting, the Cartagena meeting, and we're
to stay in school, get the education they'll
going to get maximum cooperation. We're
need to make a better future, a future where
going to redouble our efforts on the demand
they won't need that next welfare check. And
side and on the supply side. So, it's the big
we support him. You say, what can we do
picture with very able leaders from south of
our border that continue to address them-
to help California? Simple, we can start by
getting Washington out of the way. And I'll
selves to this problem. And there's been mar-
tell you, we will do all that we can to remove
velous cooperation between the countries.
the burdensome Federal regulations, to help
Q. The Ecuadorean President said today
you cut through the web of redtape to real
that his country needs more U.S. dollars.
reform.
What's your response to him, sir?
The reforms I've spoken about tonight can
President Bush. Well, I'll be discussing
it with him when I see him.
spark a revolution to bring this country home
Q. President Fujimori, will cutbacks in
to the bedrock beliefs that have made us
U.S. aid hamper your drug-fighting efforts?
great. Faith and family, responsibility and re-
President Fujimori. From the supply
spect, community and country. Simple
side, we can, we think we can do a lot on
words, certain truths that hold a world of
this side, but also we need the better com-
meaning for every American.
prehension and coordination.
And I might say parenthetically, if I could
President Bush. And that's all the things
be prideful in my comment, I am very, very
we'll be talking about.
proud of what Barbara does to demonstrate
Q. Do you need more U.S. money?
strength of family and the caring that we all
President Fujimori. Also. [Laughter]
feel in our hearts.
President Bush. Everybody does, includ-
But here's what I know about this coun-
ing us.
try's future. No matter how tough times are
President Fujimori. That's the answer
right now, no matter what trials we face,
they want? [Laughter]
America's best day always lies ahead. And I
Q. President Bush, do you believe this
believed that when I was a little boy. I believe
summit is going to be of any value?
it now. I believe it every day I live because
President Bush. I think there's a lot of
that is the great glory of the United States
value. I think the first one was-President
of America.
Fujimori was not at it-but I believe that
Thank you all, and may God bless our
it set the ground rules, it set some objectives.
great country.
I think this one will do the same thing. We
motes by Crouse
from miLhoarty
XX 1:00 today
welfare Reform - Andy
Priss Statement
Radio Speh on welfare Reform
tomorrow
2 pages
Carol
be here in an hour
June Kutners
- pick up some of his spek
Peggy Duly
-
WR not pillar
spurth Johns for
WR is imp aspect of govkreform
De has interest in state moving
Wisconsin
pattern
forward = related intergrally
Pt of new of recipient ) Daps degnity
not a focus on welfare cluselers
smpathelee edge -no sense aependency
of perpetuating
Widenser's prgms
Learn workfare face
incontines pruit in to
stay in Johool
high road
don't want
Want to get off
Charles
(Cabb)
Original outline
Welfare Reform
Tentative Outline -- Janice Shaw Crouse, Ph.D.
[Room 126 OEOB -- Ext. 2157]
Thesis: Welfare Reform is an essential part of government
reform and it plays an integral role in the three
legacies I want to be the hallmarks of my Presidency
-- jobs, family, peace.
Introduction:
"America is willingness of the heart." (Fitzgerald) If the
neediest citizens of our nation are deprived on their rights,
then we are all deprived -- that is the essence of America. And,
whatever elevates those who are on the lowest stratums of our
society, lifts us all.
I. Welfare reform is necessary for jobs.
We need to build in incentives for recipients to
stay in school in order to become productive
members of the workforce and in order for them to
have the satisfaction of meaningful employment.
(Wisconsin's "Learn Fair.")
[More to say about
the necessity for educational reform next week. ]
Alistair Cooke, One Man's America, "Most
Americans, even rich ones, were brought up in a
culture that never expected somebody else to do
the rough work." (Wisconsin's "Work Fair. ")
Our economic competitiveness is dependent upon our
success in this area.
II. Welfare reform is essential for family strength and
stability.
We need to structure welfare programs so that they
will reward family formation and stability. Too
often, our welfare program has encouraged exactly
the opposite.
Life and hope ebbs away in the effort to survive.
Individual responsibility is built on hope.
III. Welfare reform is vital for peace -- on our streets and
around the world.
The defense of democracy is merely the other side
of the coin of protecting our neediest citizens
from want and privation.
Conclusion:
My hope for welfare reform is that we will not only open the
doors of opportunity for our citizens who are on public
assistance, but that we will also prepare them to walk --
proudly and competently -- through those doors. Our goal is
to build a system of welfare that will encourage self-
respect, built strength of character, and develop to the
fullest each recipient's potential for a productive,
meaningful life.
III. Welfare reform is vital for peace -- on our streets and
around the world.
The defense of democracy is merely the other side
of the coin of protecting our neediest citizens
from want and privation.
Conclusion:
My hope for welfare reform is that we will not only open the
doors of opportunity for our citizens who are on public
assistance, but that we will also prepare them to walk --
proudly and competently -- through those doors. Our goal is
to build a system of welfare that will encourage self-
respect, built strength of character, and develop to the
fullest each recipient's potential for a productive,
meaningful life.
1) econ/ampet.
Charlie Kelb (CORM)
2) the
have to more guy
Kolb ldcts
MS due noon - -1:00
Radio Bdcast
Welfare Reform
Tentative Outline -- Janice Shaw Crouse
Juston
[Room 126 OEOB -- Ext. 2157]
Thesis: Welfare Reform is an essential part of government
reform and it plays an integral role in the three
legacies I want to be the hallmarks of my Presidency
-- jobs, family, peace.
F
Introduction:
areas, & snith are people, w
willne
for
1
??
"America is willingness of the heart. " (Fitzgerald) If the
neediest citizens of our nation are deprived on their rights
then we are all deprived -- that is the essence of America.
whatever elevates those who are on the lowest stratums of our
And/o NOT Talk
society, lifts us all.
about rights. one
I. Welfare reform is necessary for jobs.
We need to build in incentives for recipients to
within
Desproarty
stay in school in order to become productive
members of the workforce and in order for them to
want A CK to
have the satisfaction of meaningful employment.
(Wisconsin's "Learn Fair ")
[More to say about
reversention
the necessity for educational reform next week.]
Alistair Cooke, One Man's America, "Most
Americans, even rich ones, were brought up in a
six
culture that never expected somebody else to do
he
the rough work." (Wisconsin's "Work Fair. ")
Our economic competitiveness is dependent upon our
success in this area.
II. Welfare reform is essential for family strength and
stability.
We need to structure welfare programs so that they
will reward family formation and stability. Too
often, our welfare program has encouraged exactly
the opposite.
Life and hope ebbs away in the effort to survive.
Individual responsibility is built on hope.
III. Welfare reform is vital for peace -- on our streets and
around the world.
The defense of democracy is merely the other side
of the coin of protecting our neediest citizens
from want and privation.
Conclusion:
My hope for welfare reform is that we will not only open the
doors of opportunity for our citizens who are on public
assistance, but that we will also prepare them to walk --
proudly and competently -- through those doors. Our goal is
to build a system of welfare that will encourage self-
respect, built strength of character, and develop to the
take about
fullest each recipient's potential for a productive,
meaningful life.
Mention be
on
Crouse edits
(Crouse/Simon)
April 9, 1992
Draft One
Wel-form
PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS:
RADIO PROGRAM
ON WELFARE REFORM
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 1992
A.M.
One thing is certain in America today -- our people want
change. We especially want our welfare system changed. While no
people are more generous than Americans, even those who are favor
welfare recipients
currently on welfare want a connection between welfare and work.
Everyone wants welfare reform that encourages deadbeat fathers to
support their children both financially and emotionally. We
all want welfare reform that breaks the cycle of dependency
before the recipient's dignity is destroyed and before poverty
becomes a family's legacy.
I have repeatedly called for the forging of federal-state
partnerships that would make welfare reform a powerful, effective
reality. This week, I was very pleased to sign waivers for
Wisconsin's pioneering effort to achieve these goals. The
Wisconsin plan will gently, but inevitably, make welfare the
temporary assistance it was meant to be. Equally important, the
plan replaces the old assumptions and recognizes the connections
between personal responsibility, self-respect, independence and
self-sufficiency.
2
In my State of the Union address, I made a commitment to
the American people. I promised to lift the long, burdensome
federal approval process. By giving quick approval to
Wisconsin's waivers, that commitment now has the force of action.
I want to commend Governor Thompson and the thoughtful people of
the State of Wisconsin for proving that welfare reform will work.
And, VI want to challenge other states to structure their own
reforms -- we must balance America's generous heart with our
responsibility to the taxpayers who are underwriting governmental
assistance.
Such reforms are integrally related to the three legacies I
want to be the hallmarks of my Presidency -- jobs, family, peace.
We need to recognize that healthy adults have a responsibility to
work and to act in the best interest of their family's well-
being. With that as our goal, we must incorporate incentives for
recipients to stay in school in order for them to become
productive members of the workforce and in order for them to have
the education and skills necessary for meaningful employment.
I will have more to say about the necessity for educational
reform next Saturday on the first anniversary of America 2000.
Today, just let me say that our assistance must preserve the
welfare recipient's self-respect, self-reliance, courage and
determination. Our help should, in no way, encourage dependency
or undermine our nation's economic competitiveness.
3
Those who receive Government assistance have
responsibilities. They have the responsibility of seeking work
or getting the education and job training that will help them get
a job. They have the responsibility of getting their lives in
order -- that means establishing lifestyles that will support
their potential -- not destroy it -- and it means holding their
families together and not having children out-of-wedlock.
We have responsibilities, too. We must structure our
welfare programs so that they reverse those policies which
guarantee a lifestyle of dependency and subtly destroy a
recipient's spirit and undermine family life. We must reward
family formation and actively encourage families to stay
together. Too often, our welfare programs have encouraged
exactly the opposite.
My proposals for welfare reform will not only open the doors
of opportunity for our citizens who are on public assistance, but
they will also prepare them to walk -- proudly and competently
-- through those doors. Our goal is to build a system of welfare
that will encourage self-respect, build strength of character,
and develop to the fullest each recipient's potential for a
productive, meaningful life.
#####
mc Hoarty edits
/
(Crouse/Simon)
April 9, 1992
Draft One
Wel-form
PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS:
RADIO PROGRAM
ON WELFARE REFORM
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 1992
A.M.
One thing is certain in America today -- our people want
change. We especially want our welfare system changed. While no
people are more generous than Americans, even those who are
currently on welfare want a connection between welfare and work
mahe hese/
Everyone wants welfare reform that encourages deadbeat fathers to
support their children -- both financially and emotionally. We
pumbs
all want welfare reform that breaks the cycle of dependency -
coder
before the recipient's dignity is destroyed and before poverty
P30
becomes a family's legacy.
I have repeatedly called for the forging of federal-state
partnerships that would make welfare reform a powerful, effective
reality. This week, I was very pleased to sign waivers for
Wisconsin's pioneering effort to achieve these goals. The
Wisconsin plan will gently, but inevitably, make welfare the
temporary assistance it was meant to be. Equally important, the
plan replaces the old assumptions and recognizes the connections
between personal responsibility, self-respect, independence and
self-sufficiency.
of the we gare state
2
for welform reform
In my State of the Union address I made a commitment to
the American people. I promised to lift the long, burdensome
federal approval process, By giving quick approval to
Wisconsin's waivers, that commitment now has the force of action.
I want to commend Governor Tonny Thompson and the thoughtful people of
the State of Wisconsin for proving that welfare reform will work.
And, I want to challenge other states to structure their own
reforms -- we must balance America's generous heart with our
responsibility to the taxpayers who are underwriting governmental
assistance.
too hand to say?
are
the when
directly
of american every
Such reforms are
integrally related to the three legacies I
family
want to be the hallmarks of my Presidency -- jobs, family, peace
every.
For the sahe of family
americans
We need to recognize that healthy adults have a responsibility to
1
through
work and to act in the best interest of their family's well-
being. With that as our goal, we must incorporate incentives for
recipients to stay in school in order for them to become
productive members of the workforce and in order for them to have
the education and skills necessary for meaningful employment.
to help them take the first opportunity
to get the for
ingent need
& leave
I will have more to say about the necessity for educational
week - as we mark
the cursate I call telins we gare
reform next Saturday on the first anniversary of America 2000.-
once
Today, just let me say that our assistance must preserve the
forall
welfare recipient's self-respect, self-reliance, courage and
determination. Our help should, in no way, encourage dependency
or undermine our nation's economic competitiveness.
male Parporty
it ows
3
Those who receive Government assistance have
responsibilities. They have the responsibility of seeking work
or getting the education and job Q training that will help them get
a job. They have the responsibility of getting their lives in
order -- that means establishing lifestyles that will support
their potential -- not destroy it -- and it means holding their
families together and not having children out-of-wedlock.
We have responsibilities, too. We must structure our
welfare programs so that they reverse those policies which
guarantee a lifestyle of dependency and subtly destroys.
our
recipient' S spirit and undermine family life. We must reward
is 7 saps am spirit.
family formation and actively encourage families to stay
together. Too often, our welfare programs have encouraged
exactly the opposite.
My proposals for welfare reform will not only open the doors
of opportunity for our citizens who are on public assistance, but
they will also prepare them to walk -- proudly and competently
-- through those doors. Our goal is to build a system of welfare
that will encourage self-respect, build strength of character,
individuals
and develop to the fullest each recipient potential for a
productive, meaningful life.
Thank you etc,
#####
Mc Groarty edets
(Crouse/Simon)
April 9, 1992
Draft One
Wel-form
PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS:
RADIO PROGRAM
ON WELFARE REFORM
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 1992
One thing is certain in America today -- our people want
change. We especially want our welfare system changed the
system has failed. After years of trying to help those who are
in need, we have found that our assistance does not help people
out of poverty, it traps them there. We want a welfare system
that breaks the cycle of dependency before dignity is destroyed
and before poverty becomes a family legacy.
Plour system has failed.
I have repeatedly called for the forging of federal-state
partnerships that would make welfare reform a powerful, effective
reality. Yesterday, at my direction, the federal government
waived outdated rules to allow Wisconsin to try a new kind of
welfare reform. Wisconsin's plan will gently, but inevitably,
make welfare the temporary assistance it was meant to be.
Equally important, the plan replaces the old assumptions of the
welfare state and recognizes the importance of personal
responsibility, self-respect, independence and self-sufficiency.
In my State of the Union address, I made a commitment to to
lift the long, burdensome federal approval process for welfare
reform. By giving quick approval to Wisconsin's waivers, that
commitment now has the force of action. I want to commend
Governor Tommy Thompson and I want to challenge other states to
propose their own reforms -- we must balance America's generous
2
heart with our responsibility to the taxpayers who underwrite
governmental assistance.
Welfare reform is directly related to the three legacies I
want to be the hallmarks of my Presidency -- jobs, family, peace -
and they are in the interest of every American family every
American taxpayer. Our assistance should, in no way, encourage
dependency or undermine our nation's economic competitiveness
Those who receive Government assistance have responsibilities.
They have the responsibility of seeking work or getting the
education and training that will help them get a job. They have
the responsibility of getting their lives in order -- that means
establishing lifestyles that will support their potential -- not
destroy it -- and it means holding their families together and
not having children out-of-wedlock.
We have responsibilities, too. We must structure our
welfare programs so that they reverse those policies which
guarantee a lifestyle of dependency and subtly destroys self-
esteem. We must reward family formation and actively encourage
families to stay together. Too often, our welfare programs have
encouraged exactly the opposite. We must incorporate incentives
the urgent need for educational reform next week -- as we mark
the first anniversary of the crusade I call America 2000.
My proposals for welfare reform will not only open the doors
once for benefits, a fine
are pay twice for people or welfare
for recipients to stay in school. I will have more to say about
of opportunity for our citizens who are on public assistance, but
they will also prepare them to walk -- proudly and competently
second
They
wefail
when
3
-- through those doors. Our goal is to build a system of welfare
that will encourage self-respect, build strength of character,
and develop to the fullest each individual's potential for a
productive, meaningful life.
Thank you for listening and may God bless the United States
of America.
#####
Simon's Edits
(Crouse/Simon)
April 9, 1992
Draft One
Wel-form
PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS:
RADIO PROGRAM
ON WELFARE REFORM
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 1992
See Insert
8:15 A.M.
One thing is certain in America today -- our people want
change. We especially want our welfare system changed. While no
people are more generous than Americans, even those who are
currently on welfare want a connection between welfare and work.
Everyone wants welfare reform that encourages deadbeat fathers to
support their children -- both financially and emotionally. We
all want welfare reform that breaks the cycle of dependency
before the recipient's dignity is destroyed and before poverty
becomes a family's legacy.
I have repeatedly called for the forging of federal-state
partnerships that would make welfare reform a powerful, effective
reality. This week, I was very pleased to sign waivers for
Wisconsin's pioneering effort to achieve these goals. The
Wisconsin plan will gently, but inevitably, make welfare the
temporary assistance it was meant to be. Equally important, the
plan replaces the old assumptions and recognizes the connections
between personal responsibility, self-respect, independence and
self-sufficiency.
2
In my State of the Union address, I made a commitment to
the American people. I promised to lift the long, burdensome
federal approval process. By giving quick approval to
Wisconsin's waivers, that commitment now has the force of action.
I want to commend Governòr Thompson and the thoughtful people of
the State of Wisconsin for proving that welfare reform will work.
And, I want to challenge other states to structure their own
reforms -- we must balance America's generous heart with our
responsibility to the taxpayers who are underwriting governmental
assistance.
Such reforms are integrally related to the three legacies I
want to be the hallmarks of my Presidency -- jobs, family, peace.
We need to recognize that healthy adults have a responsibility to
work and to act in the best interest of their family's well-
being. With that as our goal, we must incorporate incentives for
recipients to stay in school in order for them to become
productive members of the workforce and in order for them to have
the education and skills necessary for meaningful employment.
I will have more to say about the necessity for educational
reform next Saturday on the first anniversary of America 2000.
Today, just let me say that our assistance must preserve the
welfare recipient's self-respect self reliance, courage and
determination. Our help should, in no way, encourage dependency
or undermine our nation's economic competitiveness.
3
Those who receive Government assistance have
responsibilities. They have the responsibility of seeking work
or getting the education and job training that needed will help them get work
a
job They have the responsibility of getting their lives in
order -- that means establishing lifestyles that will support
their potential -- not destroy it --- and it means holding their
families together and not having children out-of-wedlock.
We have responsibilities, too. We must structure our
welfare programs so that they reverse those policies which
guarantee a lifestyle of dependency and subtly destroy a
recipient's spirit and undermine family life. We must reward
family formation and actively encourage families to stay
together. Too often, our welfare programs have encouraged
exactly the opposite.
Instead, we must
to
My proposals for welfare reform will not only open the doors
of opportunity for our citizens who are on public assistance, but
they will also prepare them to walk -- proudly and competently
shorten through those doors. Our goal is to build a system of welfare
that will encourage self-respect, build strength of character,
and develop to the fullest each recipient's potential for a
productive, meaningful life.
#####
Insert A
Today, I'd like to talk about the troubled state of our
welfare system. The American people have always been a generous
people; they want to help those in need. But it is now clear,
after a generation of trying, that our welfare system does not
help people out of poverty but traps them there
This is not
the fault of individuals; the system has failed. So now it's
time to change the system. We need reform that breaks the cycle
of dependency before the recipient's dignity is destroyed and
before poverty becomes a family legacy.
In my State of the Union address, I made a commitment to
change the system.
Yesterday, at my direction, the federal
government waived outdated rules to allow Wisconsin to try a new
kind of welfare reform.
I want to commend Governor Tommy
Thompson and the people of Wisconsin for their imagination and
commitment to replace the old assumptions and renew the
connections between personal responsibility, self-respect,
independence, and self-sufficiency. And I want to challenge
other states to make their own reforms to balance America's
generous heart with our responsibility to the taxpayers who
underwrite public assistance.
M-Groarty edits #3
2
propose their own reforms -- we must balance America's generous
heart with our responsibility to the taxpayers who underwrite
governmental assistance. Our assistance should, in no way,
encourage dependency or undermine our nation's economic
competitiveness. We pay twice for people on welfare -- once for
the initial benefits, but even more because the nation loses
their contribution the nation's economic well-being.
Those who receive Government assistance have certain
responsibilities. They have the responsibility of seeking work
or getting the education and training that will help them get a
job. They have the responsibility of getting their lives in
order -- that means establishing lifestyles that will support
their potential -- not destroy it and it means forming
families and holding their families together.
We have responsibilities, too. We must structure our
welfare programs so that they reverse those policies which
guarantee a lifestyle of dependency and subtly destroy self-
esteem. We must reward family formation and actively encourage
families to stay together. Too often, our welfare programs have
encouraged exactly the opposite. We must incorporate incentives
for recipients to stay in school. I will have more to say about
the urgent need for educational reform next week -- as we mark
the first anniversary of the crusade I call America 2000.
My proposals for welfare reform will not only open the doors
of opportunity for our citizens who are on public assistance, but
they will also prepare them to walk -- proudly and competently
There is NO single
than education
3
-- through those doors. Our goal is to build a system of welfare
that will encourage self-respect, build strength of character,
and develop to the fullest each individual's potential for a
productive, meaningful life.
Thank you for listening and may God bless the United States
of America.
#####