Rep. Mark Takano: GOP Poverty Plan is Textbook Definition of Recycling Failed Policies
Washington DC – Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) released the following statement in response to House Republicans’ anti-poverty platform released this morning.
“Despite a new name and fresh branding, the poverty plan released today by Speaker Paul Ryan is nothing more than a collection of rejected and repackaged ideas that will do nothing to help the 45 million Americans living in poverty. In fact, many of our poorest residents – most notably low-income veterans– will face severe hardship if these policies become law. The so-called “Better Way” platform is not the work of a party that is serious about addressing our nation’s poverty crisis.
“For example, Speaker Ryan's plan would restrict access to critical food assistance for childless adults, regardless of whether they are seeking employment or job training. That proposal alone would put up to 1 million people, including as many as 60,000 veterans, at-risk of being excluded from a program that keeps millions of Americans from going hungry every year. The Republican platform also recycles the idea of turning welfare programs into block grants, which has repeatedly been used as a tool to weaken the social safety net.
“This plan is also a vehicle for Republicans to reiterate their contempt for consumer protections. Though it has little to do with poverty, the Republican plan would repeal a new rule that requires financial advisers to provide consumers with sound advice. It even calls for loosening the rules on payday lenders that prey upon low-income people who are desperate for help. It is offensive to reintroduce these policies under the guise of fighting poverty.
“At the beginning of Mr. Ryan’s tenure as Speaker he promised Americans fresh ideas and a new era of civility and respect in politics. Unfortunately, it is becoming clear that his lofty rhetoric will not be supported by the bold action this country deserves."